Site monitoring system

ABSTRACT

A site monitoring system (SMS) may analyze information from one or more sites to determine when a device, a sensor, a controller, or other structure or component associated with a network of optically switchable devices has a problem. The system may, if appropriate, act on the problem. In certain embodiments, the system learns customer/user preferences and adapts its control logic to meet the customer&#39;s goals. In various embodiments, the system updates a memory component associated with one or more optically switchable windows and/or controllers. The memory component may be updated to reflect an updated control algorithm and/or associated parameters in some cases.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

An Application Data Sheet is filed concurrently with this specificationas part of the present application. Each application that the presentapplication claims benefit of or priority to as identified in theconcurrently filed Application Data Sheet is incorporated by referenceherein in its entirety and for all purposes.

BACKGROUND

Electrically tintable windows such as electrochromic window, sometimesreferred to as “smart windows” have been deployed in limitedinstallations. As such windows gain acceptance and are more widelydeployed, they may require increasingly sophisticated control andmonitoring systems, as there may be a large amount of data associatedwith smart windows. Improved techniques for managing large installationswill be necessary.

SUMMARY

A site monitoring system (“SMS”) may analyze information from one ormore sites to determine when a device, a sensor, or a controller has aproblem. The system may, if appropriate, act on the problem. In certainembodiments, the system learns customer/user preferences and adapts itscontrol logic to meet the customer's goals.

A system of one or more computers and/or other processing devices can beconfigured to perform particular operations or actions by virtue ofhaving software, firmware, hardware, or a combination of them installedon the system that in operation causes or cause the system to performthe actions. One or more computer programs can be configured to performparticular operations or actions by virtue of including instructionsthat, when executed by data processing apparatus, cause the apparatus toperform the actions.

One general aspect includes a system for monitoring one or more sites,each having a network of switchable optical devices, the systemincluding: (a) a data repository configured to store data about thefunctioning of the switchable optical devices in said sites; (b) one ormore interfaces for receiving data from said sites; and (c) logic foranalyzing said data from said sites to identify any of the switchableoptical devices, or any controllers or sensors operating in conjunctionwith any of the switchable optical devices, that are performing outsidean expected performance region. The monitoring may occur locally at thesite(s) where the network(s) are located, or it may occur remotely.Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems,apparatus, and computer programs recorded on one or more computerstorage devices, each configured to perform or store instructions forperforming the features of the logic.

In one aspect of the embodiments herein, a monitoring system formonitoring a network of optically switchable windows is provided, themonitoring system including: a fingerprinting module includinginstructions configured to execute hardware operations on one or moreprocessors, where the instructions include: communicating with aplurality of components of the network of optically switchable windowsto receive identification numbers of the plurality of components,causing the voltage and/or current to be measured at the plurality ofcomponents during one or more optical transitions of at least oneoptically switchable window, and storing the identification numbersreceived and the voltage and/or current measured in a fingerprint of thenetwork of optically switchable windows, where the plurality ofcomponents include a plurality of the optically switchable windows, anda plurality of controllers configured to control optical transitions ofthe optically switchable windows; and a parameter update moduleincluding instructions configured to execute hardware operations on theone or more processors, where the instructions include: determining thatone or more of the plurality of controllers requires updated parametersfor controlling one or more optical transitions of one or more of theplurality of optically switchable windows, and sending one or morecommunications including the updated parameters and instructions toconfigure said one or more of the plurality of controllers requiring theupdated parameters.

In some embodiments, the plurality of components further includes one ormore control panels. In some such cases, the plurality of componentsfurther includes wiring electrically positioned between the one or morecontrol panels and the plurality of controllers. In these or othercases, the plurality of components may further include one or moresensors. The monitoring system may be configured to monitor two or morenetworks of optically switchable windows, the two or more networks ofoptically switchable windows being provided at different sites.

The fingerprint of the network of optically switchable windows mayfurther include information describing user preferences associated withone or more of the plurality of components. In some cases, thefingerprint of the network of optically switchable windows furtherincludes algorithms and associated parameters for controlling opticaltransitions on the plurality of optically switchable windows. In somesuch cases, the associated parameters may include (i) a ramp to driverate, (ii) a drive voltage, (iii) a ramp to hold rate, and (iv) a holdvoltage. In these or other cases, the fingerprint of the network ofoptically switchable windows may further include a list of availabletint states and associated transmissivity levels for one or more of theplurality of optically switchable windows based on the algorithms and/orassociated parameters for controlling optical transitions on theplurality of optically switchable windows. The fingerprint of thenetwork of optically switchable windows may include calibration data forone or more of the plurality of components. The fingerprint of thenetwork of optically switchable windows may include log files and/orconfiguration files. The fingerprint of the network of opticallyswitchable windows may include information related to a physical layoutof the plurality of components on the network of optically switchablewindows. In some embodiments, the network of optically switchablewindows includes a control panel and wiring electrically positionedbetween the control panel and the plurality of controllers. In some suchembodiments, the fingerprint of the network of optically switchablewindows may include information related to a voltage drop over thewiring electrically positioned between the control panel and at leastone of the plurality of controllers.

In certain implementations, the fingerprint of the network of opticallyswitchable windows may include one or more parameters selected from thegroup consisting of: (i) a peak current experienced during the one ormore optical transitions of the at least one optically switchablewindow, (ii) a leakage current observed at an ending optical state ofthe one or more optical transitions of the at least one opticallyswitchable window, (iii) a voltage compensation required to account fora voltage drop in a conductive path from a power supply to at least oneoptically switchable window, (iv) a total charge transferred to the atleast one optically switchable window during at least a portion of theone or more optical transitions of the at least one optically switchablewindow, (v) an amount of power consumed by the at least one opticallyswitchable window during the one or more optical transitions of the atleast one optically switchable window, (vi) an indication of whetherdouble tinting or double clearing has occurred on the at least oneoptically switchable window, and (vii) information relating switchingcharacteristics of the at least one optically switchable window toexternal weather conditions.

For example, the fingerprint of the network of optically switchablewindows may include the peak current experienced during the one or moreoptical transitions of the at least one optically switchable window. Inthese or other embodiments, the fingerprint of the network of opticallyswitchable windows may include the leakage current observed at theending optical state of the one or more optical transitions of the atleast one optically switchable window. In these or other embodiments,the fingerprint of the network of optically switchable windows mayinclude the voltage compensation required to account for the voltagedrop in the conductive path from the power supply to the at least oneoptically switchable window. In these or other embodiments, thefingerprint of the network of optically switchable windows may includethe total charge transferred to the at least one optically switchablewindow during at least the portion of the one or more opticaltransitions of the at least one optically switchable window. In these orother embodiments, the fingerprint of the network of opticallyswitchable windows may include the amount of power consumed by the atleast one optically switchable window during the one or more opticaltransitions of the at least one optically switchable window. In these orother embodiments, the fingerprint of the network of opticallyswitchable windows may include the indication of whether double tintingor double clearing has occurred on the at least one optically switchablewindow. In these or other embodiments, the fingerprint of the network ofoptically switchable windows may include information relating switchingcharacteristics of the at least one optically switchable window toexternal weather conditions.

In certain implementations, the instructions for the fingerprintingmodule may include instructions for: generating a first fingerprint inresponse to a first command, the first fingerprint including voltageand/or current information related to a first optical transition on atleast one of the optically switchable windows, and generating a secondfingerprint in response to a second command, where the secondfingerprint includes voltage and/or current information related to asecond optical transition on at least one of the optically switchablewindows, where the second optical transition has a different startingoptical state and/or a different ending optical state compared to thefirst optical transition. In some such embodiments, the secondfingerprint may include voltage and/or current information related to athird optical transition on at least one of the optically switchablewindows. The third optical transition may have the same starting andending states as the first optical transition.

The network of optically switchable windows may a plurality of zonesinto which the optically switchable windows are divided. In some cases,optically switchable windows in the same zone are desired to transitiontogether, and the fingerprint of the network of optically switchablewindows may include information regarding whether any of the opticallyswitchable windows is transitioning or has been transitioningout-of-sync with the other optically switchable windows in the samezone. In some such embodiments, the instructions for the parameterupdate module may include instructions for identifying which opticallyswitchable window is out-of-sync with the other optically switchablewindows in the same zone, and providing the updated parameters andinstructions to configure the controller associated with the opticallyswitchable window that is out-of-sync to thereby change a rate at whichthe optically switchable window that is out-of-sync transitions suchthat all of the optically switchable windows in the same zone transitiontogether.

In certain embodiments, the fingerprint of the network of opticallyswitchable windows includes data indicating a frequency of errors overtime related to one or more of the plurality of components. In a numberof embodiments, the fingerprint of the network of optically switchablewindows may include information indicating whether any of the pluralityof components is becoming or has become disconnected from the network ofoptically switchable windows. The fingerprint of the network ofoptically switchable windows may include data related to one or moresensors, the data including one or more parameters selected from thegroup consisting of: (i) sensor readings vs .time, (ii) sensor readingsvs. external weather events, (iii) information comparing an output ofthe one or more sensors vs. a tint state on at least one opticallyswitchable window affected by the one or more sensors, and (iv)information regarding changes in external lighting conditions since thenetwork of optically switchable windows was installed. In certainimplementations, the fingerprint of the network of optically switchablewindows may include sensor readings vs .time. In these or otherimplementations, the fingerprint of the network of optically switchablewindows may include sensor readings vs. external weather events. Inthese or other implementations, the fingerprint of the network ofoptically switchable windows may include information comparing theoutput of the one or more sensors vs. the tint state on the at least oneoptically switchable window affected by the one or more sensors. Inthese or other embodiments, the fingerprint of the network of opticallyswitchable windows may include information regarding changes in externallighting conditions since the network of optically switchable windowswas installed.

In certain implementations, the fingerprint of the network of opticallyswitchable windows may include information about an amount of time spentin each tint state for one or more of the plurality of opticallyswitchable windows. In these or other embodiments, the fingerprint ofthe network of optically switchable windows may include informationrelated to a number of times that one or more of the plurality ofoptically switchable windows has transitioned over its lifetime. In somecases, the fingerprint of the network of optically switchable windowsmay include at least one parameter selected from the group consistingof: an input power to the control panel, (ii) an output power from thecontrol panel, (iii) an input voltage to the control panel, (iv) anoutput voltage from the control panel, (v) an input current to thecontrol panel, and (vi) an output current from the control panel.

In some embodiments, determining that one or more of the plurality ofcontrollers requires updated parameters may include comparing thefingerprint of the network of optically switchable windows to a previousfingerprint of the network of optically switchable windows. Theparameter update module may be configured to detect a malfunctioning ordegrading component of the plurality of components based on thefingerprint of the network of optically switchable windows. In some suchembodiments, the monitoring system may be configured to notify a userwhen the malfunctioning or degrading component is detected.

In certain implementations, the monitoring system may further include acustomization module including instructions configured to executehardware operations on the one or more processors, where theinstructions include: analyzing usage data related to the plurality ofoptically switchable windows, determining trends in the usage data, anddetermining the updated parameters for the parameter update module toprovide to the one or more of the plurality of controllers, where theupdated parameters more closely reflect the trends determined in theusage data compared to an original set of parameters used when the usagedata was gathered.

A commissioning module may be included in some embodiments. Thecommissioning module may include instructions configured to executehardware operations on the one or more processors, where theinstructions include: determining the identification numbers of theplurality of components; determining a location of each of the pluralityof components; and associating each of the plurality of components withits identification number and location.

In certain embodiments, the monitoring system may be configured to alertan operator of the monitoring system when one or more of the pluralityof components is malfunctioning or degrading. The parameter updatemodule may determine that one or more of the plurality of controllersrequires updated parameters in response to a request from a user thatone or more of the optically switchable windows transitions differentlycompared to past switching behavior. In some other cases, the parameterupdate module may determine that one or more of the plurality ofcontrollers requires updated parameters in response to an event thatdestroys or erases one or more memory components storing an original setof parameters for controlling the one or more optical transitions of theone or more of the plurality of optically switchable windows.

Various communication options are available for communicating with amonitoring system. In some cases, the monitoring system may continuouslycommunicate with a network installed at a site, where the communicationoccurs over an Internet connection. In other cases, the monitoringsystem may communicate intermittently or periodically with a networkinstalled at a site, where the communication occurs over an Internetconnection. In some cases, the monitoring system may communicateintermittently or periodically with a network installed at a site, wherethe communication occurs via a portable memory component.

In some embodiments, the network may be located at a site, and the oneor more processors may be located remote from the site at which thenetwork is located. In some embodiments, the network may be located at asite, and the one or more processors may be located at the site at whichthe network is located. In some embodiments, the network may be locatedat a site, and the one or more processors may be distributed between atleast first location and a second location, the first location being thesite at which the network is located, and the second location beingremote from the site at which the network is located.

In another aspect of the disclosed embodiments, a method of managing anetwork of optically switchable windows is provided, the methodincluding: communicating with a plurality of components of the networkof optically switchable windows to receive identification numbers of theplurality of components; causing the voltage and/or current at theplurality of components to be measured during one or more transitions ofat least one optically switchable window on the network; storing theidentification numbers received and the current and/or voltage measuredin a fingerprint of the network of optically switchable windows, wherethe plurality of components include a plurality of the opticallyswitchable windows, and a plurality of window controllers configured tocontrol optical transitions of the optically switchable windows;determining that one or more of the plurality of window controllersrequires updated parameters for controlling one or more opticaltransitions of one or more of the plurality of optically switchablewindows, and sending one or more communications including the updatedparameters and instructions to configure said one or more of theplurality of window controllers requiring the updated parameters.

In certain embodiments, the plurality of components may include one ormore control panels. In some such embodiments, the plurality ofcomponents may include wiring electrically positioned between the one ormore control panels and the plurality of controllers. In these or otherembodiments, the plurality of components may include one or moresensors. In some implementations, the method may further includemonitoring two or more networks of optically switchable windows, the twoor more networks of optically switchable windows being provided atdifferent sites.

The fingerprint may include a number of different pieces of information.For instance, the fingerprint of the network of optically switchablewindows may include information describing user preferences associatedwith one or more of the plurality of components. In these or otherembodiments, the fingerprint of the network of optically switchablewindows may include algorithms and associated parameters for controllingoptical transitions on the plurality of optically switchable windows.The associated parameters may include (i) a ramp to drive rate, (ii) adrive voltage, (iii) a ramp to hold rate, and (iv) a hold voltage. Insome embodiments, the fingerprint of the network of optically switchablewindows further includes a list of available tint states and associatedtransmissivity levels for one or more of the plurality of opticallyswitchable windows based on the algorithms and/or associated parametersfor controlling optical transitions on the plurality of opticallyswitchable windows. In these or other embodiments, the fingerprint ofthe network of optically switchable windows may include calibration datafor one or more of the plurality of components. In these or otherembodiments, the fingerprint of the network of optically switchablewindows may include log files and/or configuration files. In these orother embodiments, the fingerprint of the network of opticallyswitchable windows may include information related to a physical layoutof the plurality of components on the network of optically switchablewindows. In some embodiments, the network of optically switchablewindows may include a control panel and wiring electrically positionedbetween the control panel and the plurality of controllers, and thefingerprint of the network of optically switchable windows may includeinformation related to a voltage drop over the wiring electricallypositioned between the control panel and at least one of the pluralityof controllers.

In certain implementations, the fingerprint of the network of opticallyswitchable windows may include one or more parameters selected from thegroup consisting of: (i) a peak current experienced during the one ormore optical transitions of the at least one optically switchablewindow, (ii) a leakage current observed at an ending optical state ofthe one or more optical transitions of the at least one opticallyswitchable window, (iii) a voltage compensation required to account fora voltage drop in a conductive path from a power supply to at least oneoptically switchable window, (iv) a total charge transferred to the atleast one optically switchable window during at least a portion of theone or more optical transitions of the at least one optically switchablewindow, (v) an amount of power consumed by the at least one opticallyswitchable window during the one or more optical transitions of the atleast one optically switchable window, (vi) an indication of whetherdouble tinting or double clearing has occurred on the at least oneoptically switchable window, and (vii) information relating switchingcharacteristics of the at least one optically switchable window toexternal weather conditions. For instance, the fingerprint of thenetwork of optically switchable windows may include the peak currentexperienced during the one or more optical transitions of the at leastone optically switchable window. In these or other embodiments, thefingerprint of the network of optically switchable windows may includethe leakage current observed at the ending optical state of the one ormore optical transitions of the at least one optically switchablewindow. In these or other embodiments, the fingerprint of the network ofoptically switchable windows may include the voltage compensationrequired to account for the voltage drop in the conductive path from thepower supply to the at least one optically switchable window. In theseor other embodiments, the fingerprint of the network of opticallyswitchable windows may include the total charge transferred to the atleast one optically switchable window during at least the portion of theone or more optical transitions of the at least one optically switchablewindow. In these or other embodiments, the fingerprint of the network ofoptically switchable windows may include the amount of power consumed bythe at least one optically switchable window during the one or moreoptical transitions of the at least one optically switchable window. Inthese or other embodiments, the fingerprint of the network of opticallyswitchable windows may include the indication of whether double tintingor double clearing has occurred on the at least one optically switchablewindow. In these or other embodiments, the fingerprint of the network ofoptically switchable windows may include information relating switchingcharacteristics of the at least one optically switchable window toexternal weather conditions.

In certain embodiments, the method may include: generating a firstfingerprint in response to a first command, the first fingerprintincluding voltage and/or current information related to a first opticaltransition on at least one of the optically switchable windows, andgenerating a second fingerprint in response to a second command, wherethe second fingerprint includes voltage and/or current informationrelated to a second optical transition on at least one of the opticallyswitchable windows, where the second optical transition has a differentstarting optical state and/or a different ending optical state comparedto the first optical transition. In some such embodiments, the secondfingerprint may include voltage and/or current information related to athird optical transition on at least one of the optically switchablewindows. The third optical transition may have the same starting opticalstate and ending optical state as the first optical transition.

The network of optically switchable windows may include a plurality ofzones into which the optically switchable windows are divided. In somesuch cases, optically switchable windows in the same zone are desired totransition together, and the fingerprint of the network of opticallyswitchable windows may include information regarding whether any of theoptically switchable windows is transitioning or has been transitioningout-of-sync with the other optically switchable windows in the samezone. In certain embodiments, the method may include: identifying whichoptically switchable window is out-of-sync with the other opticallyswitchable windows in the same zone, the optically switchable windowthat is out-of-sync with the other optically switchable windows in thesame zone being associated with the window controller requiring theupdated parameters, and providing the updated parameters andinstructions to configure the controller requiring the updatedparameters to thereby change a rate at which the optically switchablewindow that is out-of-sync with the other optically switchable windowsin the same zone transitions such that all of the optically switchablewindows in the same zone transition together.

In some embodiments, the fingerprint of the network of opticallyswitchable windows may include data indicating a frequency of errorsover time related to one or more of the plurality of components. Inthese or other embodiments, the fingerprint of the network of opticallyswitchable windows may include information indicating whether any of theplurality of components is becoming or has become disconnected from thenetwork of optically switchable windows. In these or other embodiments,the fingerprint of the network of optically switchable windows mayinclude data related to the one or more sensors, the data including oneor more parameters selected from the group consisting of: (i) sensorreadings vs .time, (ii) sensor readings vs. external weather events,(iii) information comparing an output of the one or more sensors vs. atint state on at least one optically switchable window affected by theone or more sensors, and (iv) information regarding changes in externallighting conditions since the network of optically switchable windowswas installed. For instance, the fingerprint of the network of opticallyswitchable windows may include sensor readings vs. time. In these orother embodiments, the fingerprint of the network of opticallyswitchable windows may include sensor readings vs. external weatherevents. In these or other embodiments, the fingerprint of the network ofoptically switchable windows may include information comparing theoutput of the one or more sensors vs. the tint state on the at least oneoptically switchable window affected by the one or more sensors. Inthese or other embodiments, the fingerprint of the network of opticallyswitchable windows may include information regarding changes in externallighting conditions since the network of optically switchable windowswas installed. In these or other embodiments, the fingerprint of thenetwork of optically switchable windows may include information about anamount of time spent in each tint state for one or more of the pluralityof optically switchable windows. In these or other embodiments, thefingerprint of the network of optically switchable windows may includeinformation related to a number of times that one or more of theplurality of optically switchable windows has transitioned over itslifetime. In these or other embodiments, the fingerprint of the networkof optically switchable windows may include at least one parameterselected from the group consisting of: an input power to the controlpanel, (ii) an output power from the control panel, (iii) an inputvoltage to the control panel, (iv) an output voltage from the controlpanel, (v) an input current to the control panel, and (vi) an outputcurrent from the control panel.

In some implementations, determining that one or more of the pluralityof controllers requires updated parameters may include comparing thefingerprint of the network of optically switchable windows to a previousfingerprint of the network of optically switchable windows. In certainembodiments, the method may include detecting a malfunctioning ordegrading component of the plurality of components based on thefingerprint of the network of optically switchable windows. The methodmay include notifying a user when the malfunctioning or degradingcomponent is detected.

In certain embodiments, the method may include: analyzing usage datarelated to the plurality of optically switchable windows, determiningtrends in the usage data, and determining the updated parameters, wherethe updated parameters more closely reflect the trends determined in theusage data compared to an original set of parameters used when the usagedata was gathered. In these or other embodiments, the method may includedetermining the identification numbers of the plurality of components;determining a location of each of the plurality of components; andassociating each of the plurality of components with its identificationnumber and location.

In some implementations, the method may include alerting an operatorwhen one or more of the plurality of components is malfunctioning ordegrading. In these or other embodiments, determining that one or moreof the plurality of controllers requires updated parameters may be donein response to a request from a user that one or more of the opticallyswitchable windows transitions differently compared to past switchingbehavior. In some embodiments, determining that one or more of theplurality of controllers requires updated parameters may be done inresponse to an event that destroys or erases one or more memorycomponents storing an original set of parameters for controlling the oneor more optical transitions of the one or more of the plurality ofoptically switchable windows.

A number of options are available for communication. In some cases,communication with the network may occur continuously over an Internetconnection. In other cases, communication with the network may occurintermittently or periodically over an Internet connection. In someembodiments, communication with the network may occur intermittently orperiodically, and the communication may occurs via a portable memorycomponent.

In some embodiments, the network may be located at a site, and one ormore processors performing the method may be located remote from thesite at which the network is located. In some embodiments, the networkmay be located at a site, and one or more processors performing themethod may be located at the site at which the network is located. Incertain implementations, the network may be located at a site, and oneor more processors performing the method may be distributed between atleast first location and a second location, the first location being thesite at which the network is located, and the second location beingremote from the site at which the network is located.

These and other features of the disclosure will be presented in moredetail below with reference to the associated drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a block diagram of a network hierarchy with a monitoringnetwork controller.

FIG. 1B depicts a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a buildingmanagement system (BMS).

FIG. 1C depicts a block diagram of a building network.

FIG. 1D is a block diagram of components of a system for controllingfunctions of one or more tintable windows of a building.

FIG. 1E is another block diagram of components of a system forcontrolling functions of one or more tintable windows of a building.

FIG. 2 is a graph depicting voltage and current profiles associated withdriving an electrochromic device from bleached to colored and fromcolored to bleached.

FIG. 3 is a graph depicting certain voltage and current profilesassociated with driving an electrochromic device from bleached tocolored.

FIG. 4 depicts a simplified block diagram of components of a windowcontroller.

FIG. 5 depicts a schematic diagram of a room including a tintable windowand at least one sensor.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing some steps of predictive control logic fora method of controlling one or more electrochromic windows in abuilding.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of an example of a user interface that can beused to enter schedule information to generate a schedule employed by awindow controller.

FIGS. 8A and 8B show examples of a dashboard for a SMS.

FIG. 9 presents an example of photosensor data that may be obtained by aSMS.

FIG. 10 presents data showing a window's response is shown in relationto commands issued by a controller for the window. This is anotherexample of site information that may be obtained by a monitoring system.

FIG. 11 shows state transitions of windows controlled by three differentnetwork controllers in a site. This is yet another example of siteinformation that can be monitored and stored.

FIG. 12 shows site monitored data illustrating the case when a multipletinting is required to switch a device from one optical state toanother.

FIG. 13 shows site monitored data indicating degradation in theconnection of a power line to an insulated glass unit.

FIGS. 14A-14D show site monitored data comparing zone state changes thatmay be used by the monitoring system to ensure that the control logic isworking properly.

FIG. 15 illustrates monitored data for multiple windows from the samezone but having different switching characteristics.

FIG. 16 illustrates monitor information showing that a zone underconsideration has one of the controllers is out of sync with rest of thecontrollers in the zone.

FIG. 17 provides monitor information for four photosensors, each facinga different direction, on a site.

FIGS. 18A-18H present information used by a SMS to detect and analyze aproblem with a window controller in a group of controllers for windowson a single facade.

FIGS. 19A-19C show various techniques available for transferring databetween a site and a SMS.

FIG. 20 illustrates a portion of a power distribution network accordingto certain embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This document describes a platform for monitoring one or more buildingsor other sites having switchable optical devices deployed therein. Insome cases, the sites each have one or more controllers, eachcontrolling the switching of one or more devices. The site may also havesensors such as light sensors, thermal sensors, and/or occupancysensors, for example, that provide data used in making decisions aboutwhen and by how much (tint level) to switch the devices. In certainembodiments, the optical devices are electrochromic devices onstructures such as windows and/or mirrors. In the description thatfollows, switchable optical devices are often referred to as “windows”or “electrochromic windows.” It should be understood that such termsinclude structures other than windows that have switchable opticaldevices. Further, the switchable devices are not limited toelectrochromic devices, but include such other switchable devices asliquid crystal devices, electrophoretic devices, and the like, which maybe non-pixelated.

A SMS may analyze information from one or more sites to determine when adevice, a sensor, and/or a controller has a problem. The system may, ifappropriate, act on the problem. In certain embodiments, the systemlearns customer/user preferences and adapts its control logic to meetthe customer's goals.

In a related way, the system may learn how to better conserve energy,sometimes through interaction with a site's lighting and/or HVACsystems, and then modify the controller settings accordingly. By doingthis over one or multiple sites, the system may learn entirely newenergy control methods, which it can deploy on the same or other sites.As an example, the system may learn how to control heating load whenconfronted with a type of rapidly changing weather (e.g., a storm).Through experience, the system learns how to adjust window tinting,e.g., at sites where storms occur frequently, and then apply its learnedmode of adjustment to other sites when storms occur there. The systemmay in turn learn something new from adjusting window tint at the latterstorm site and relay that learning to the previous or other sites.

In certain embodiments, the SMS includes a dashboard or other userinterface that flags sites with components that are out ofspecification. The dashboard allows a technician to view the details ofa flagged component and see the log or performance data of thecomponent. Thus, the system allows for proactive and/or prophylacticadjustment and/or repair of a window, sensor, controller, or othercomponent, e.g., before the end user may realize the performance of thecomponent is out of specification. In this way a better end userexperience is realized.

System Terminology

“Site monitoring system” A processing center that communicates with oneor more sites. The communication may occur continuously orintermittently. The SMS monitors the site(s) by receiving data about theswitchable optical devices and associated controllers and sensors at thesite(s) (as well as any other relevant components at the site(s)). Fromthis data, the SMS may detect and/or present potential problems,identify trends in the performance of devices, controllers, and/or othercomponents at the site(s), modify algorithms and/or parameters forcontrolling the switchable optical devices, etc. It may also send dataand/or control messages to the site(s), sometimes in response to data itreceives from the site(s). A SMS may operate locally on a site that itmonitors, and/or may operate remotely from one or more of the site(s)that it monitors.

“Site” This is the building, vehicle, or other location of installedswitchable optical devices. The sites communicate with the SMS to allowmonitoring and optionally control. Examples of sites include residentialbuildings, office buildings, schools, airports, hospitals, governmentbuildings, vehicles, planes, boats, trains, etc. The switchable devicesmay be provided in a network and operated under the control of one ormore algorithms. Such networks are further described in the followingapplications, each of which is herein incorporated by reference in itsentirety: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/268,204, filed Sep. 16,2016; PCT Patent Application No. PCT/US16/41176, filed Jul. 6, 2016; andPCT Patent Application No. PCT/US15/38667, filed Jun. 30, 2015.

Transitions from one optical state to another may be dictated byprograms or logic such as that described in U.S. patent application Ser.No. 13/772,969, filed Feb. 21, 2013, which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety. The one or more control functions (e.g.,algorithms and/or associated parameters) used to control the switchabledevices may be implemented on the site by one more window controllers,network controllers and/or master controllers. Logic for controlling theswitchable devices may be provided on any one or more of thesecontrollers. As described further below, the system may send and/orretrieve data to any or all of these controllers depending upon theparticular setup at each site that the system monitors. For example, thesystem may communicate with a master controller at one site, whilecommunicating with network controllers at another site. In anotherexample, the system communicates only with master controllers at allsites. In yet another example, the system may communicate indirectlywith one or more controllers at a site (e.g., window controllers,network controllers, and/or master controllers), for example, the systemmay communicate directly with a building management system which relayswindow controller data to the system and vice versa.

Various embodiments discussed herein are presented in the context of aSMS that simultaneously monitors multiple sites. However, it isunderstood that a SMS may also monitor a single site, or it may monitormultiple sites in a non-simultaneous manner. Any of the featuresdescribed herein with respect to multiple sites may also be implementedon a SMS that only monitors a single site.

“Monitoring” is the principal way that the SMS generates and/or acquiresinformation from sites. Monitoring can provide the system withinformation about the various sensors, windows, controllers, and othercomponents and window systems in the sites it services. In variousembodiments, the SMS may generate a fingerprint for each component thatis monitored, the fingerprint including information about the componentthat is communicated to the SMS. The exact type of information includedin each fingerprint will depend on the type of component beingfingerprinted. The SMS may actively utilize the information gathered bymonitoring the site(s) to identify, control, and/or correct an issuewith one or more components at the site. The monitoring may be donecontinuously or intermittently. The fingerprint may represent, e.g., thephysical characteristics, operation mode, settings, etc. at a snapshotin time. The SMS may use a fingerprint as a baseline for comparison at alater time, to identify variation in parameters from the storedfingerprint.

An “optically switchable device” or “switchable optical device” is adevice that changes optical state in response to an electrical input.The device is typically, but not necessarily, a thin film device. Itreversibly cycles between two or more optical states. Switching betweenthese states is controlled by applying predefined current and/or voltageto the device. The device typically includes two thin conductive sheetsthat straddle at least one optically active layer. The electrical inputdriving the change in optical state is applied to the thin conductivesheets. In certain implementations, the input is provided by bus bars inelectrical communication with the conductive sheets.

While the disclosure emphasizes electrochromic devices as examples ofoptically switchable devices, the disclosure is not so limited. Examplesof other types of optically switchable device include certainelectrophoretic devices, liquid crystal devices, and the like. Opticallyswitchable devices may be provided on various optically switchableproducts, such as optically switchable windows. However, the embodimentsdisclosed herein are not limited to switchable windows. Examples ofother types of optically switchable products include mirrors, displays,and the like. In the context of this disclosure, these products aretypically provided in a non-pixelated format.

An “optical transition” is a change in any one or more opticalproperties of a switchable optical device. The optical property thatchanges may be, for example, tint, reflectivity, refractive index,color, etc. In certain embodiments, the optical transition will have adefined starting optical state and a defined ending optical state. Forexample the starting optical state may be 80% transmissivity and theending optical state may be 50% transmissivity. The optical transitionis typically driven by applying an appropriate electric potential acrossthe two thin conductive sheets of the switchable optical device.

A “starting optical state” is the optical state of a switchable opticaldevice immediately prior to the beginning of an optical transition. Thestarting optical state is typically defined as the magnitude of anoptical state which may be tint, reflectivity, refractive index, color,etc. The starting optical state may be a maximum or minimum opticalstate for the switchable optical device; e.g., 90% or 4% transmissivity.Alternatively, the starting optical state may be an intermediate opticalstate having a value somewhere between the maximum and minimum opticalstates for the switchable optical device; e.g., 50% transmissivity.

An “ending optical state” is the optical state of a switchable opticaldevice immediately after the complete optical transition from a startingoptical state. The complete transition occurs when optical state changesin a manner understood to be complete for a particular application. Forexample, a complete tinting might be deemed a transition from 75%optical transmissivity to 10% transmissivity. The ending optical statemay be a maximum or minimum optical state for the switchable opticaldevice; e.g., 90% or 4% transmissivity. Alternatively, the endingoptical state may be an intermediate optical state having a valuesomewhere between the maximum and minimum optical states for theswitchable optical device; e.g., 50% transmissivity.

“Bus bar” refers to an electrically conductive strip attached to aconductive layer such as a transparent conductive electrode spanning thearea of a switchable optical device. The bus bar delivers electricalpotential and current from an external lead to the conductive layer. Aswitchable optical device includes two or more bus bars, each connectedto a single conductive layer of the device. In various embodiments, abus bar forms a long thin line that spans most of the length or width ofa device's conductor sheets. Often, a bus bar is located near the edgeof the device.

“Applied Voltage” or V_(app) refers the difference in potential appliedto two bus bars of opposite polarity on the electrochromic device. Eachbus bar is electronically connected to a separate transparent conductivelayer. The applied voltage may different magnitudes or functions such asdriving an optical transition or holding an optical state. Between thetransparent conductive layers are sandwiched the switchable opticaldevice materials such as electrochromic materials. Each of thetransparent conductive layers experiences a potential drop between theposition where a bus bar is connected to it and a location remote fromthe bus bar. Generally, the greater the distance from the bus bar, thegreater the potential drop in a transparent conducting layer. The localpotential of the transparent conductive layers is often referred toherein as the V_(TCL). Bus bars of opposite polarity may be laterallyseparated from one another across the face of a switchable opticaldevice.

“Effective Voltage” or V_(eff) refers to the potential between thepositive and negative transparent conducting layers at any particularlocation on the switchable optical device. In Cartesian space, theeffective voltage is defined for a particular x,y coordinate on thedevice. At the point where V_(eff) is measured, the two transparentconducting layers are separated in the z-direction (by the devicematerials), but share the same x,y coordinate.

“Hold Voltage” refers to the applied voltage necessary to indefinitelymaintain the device in an ending optical state.

“Drive Voltage” refers to the applied voltage provided during at least aportion of the optical transition. The drive voltage may be viewed as“driving” at least a portion of the optical transition. Its magnitude isdifferent from that of the applied voltage immediately prior to thestart of the optical transition. In certain embodiments, the magnitudeof the drive voltage is greater than the magnitude of the hold voltage.An example application of drive and hold voltages is depicted in FIG. 3.

A window “controller” is used to control the tint level of theelectrochromic device of an electrochromic window. In some embodiments,the window controller is able to transition the electrochromic windowbetween two tint states (levels), a bleached state and a colored state.In other embodiments, the controller can additionally transition theelectrochromic window (e.g., having a single electrochromic device) tointermediate tint levels. In some disclosed embodiments, the windowcontroller is able to transition the electrochromic window to and fromfour or more tint levels. Certain electrochromic windows allowintermediate tint levels by using two (or more) electrochromic lites ina single IGU, where each lite is a two-state lite. Other electrochromicwindows allow intermediate states by varying the applied voltage to asingle electrochromic lite.

In some embodiments, a window controller can power one or moreelectrochromic devices in an electrochromic window. Typically, thisfunction of the window controller is augmented with one or more otherfunctions described in more detail below. Window controllers describedherein are not limited to those that have the function of powering anelectrochromic device to which it is associated for the purposes ofcontrol. That is, the power source for the electrochromic window may beseparate from the window controller, where the window controller has itsown power source and directs application of power from the window powersource to the window. However, it is convenient to include a powersource with the window controller and to configure the controller topower the window directly, because it obviates the need for separatewiring for powering the electrochromic window.

Further, the window controllers described in this section are describedas standalone controllers which may be configured to control thefunctions of a single window or a plurality of electrochromic windows,without integration of the window controller into a building controlnetwork or a building management system (BMS). Window controllers,however, may be integrated into a building control network or a BMS, asdescribed further in the Building Management System section of thisdisclosure.

The optically switchable devices described in this application may beprovided in a network. In various embodiments, the optically switchabledevices may be connected together in a power distribution network and/ora communications network. Various components may form part of both thepower distribution network and the communication network. A simplifiedexample of a communications network is shown in FIG. 1D, describedfurther below. Briefly, a master controller 1403 is in communicationwith a plurality of intermediate network controllers 1405 (oftenreferred to more simply as network controllers), which are each incommunication with a plurality of leaf or end window controllers 1110(often referred to more simply as window controllers). A similar setupis described in FIG. 1E, described further below.

A simplified example of a power distribution network according to oneembodiment is shown in FIG. 20 , described further below. Briefly, atrunk line 2005 connects a power source (in this embodiment controlpanel 2001) to a plurality of drop lines 2004 a-c. At the junction ofthe trunk line 2005 with each drop line 2004 a-c, a connector 2006 a-cjoins the two lines. The drop lines 2004 a-c connect the trunk line 2005with the window controllers 2002 a-c, which are in turn connected withoptically switchable windows 2003 a-c. Power distribution networks arefurther described in the following patent applications, each of which isherein incorporated by reference in its entirety: U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/268,204, filed Sep. 16, 2016, and PCT PatentApplication No. PCT/US16/41176, filed Jul. 6, 2016.

In various embodiments where the optically switchable windows areprovided in a wired power distribution network, one or more trunk linesmay be used to route power. Briefly, a trunk line is defined by astructural element and a positional element. Structurally, a trunk lineis understood to include wires for carrying power. In many cases a trunkline also includes wires for carrying communication information, thoughthis is not always the case. With respect to position, a trunk line isunderstood to be functionally positioned between the control panel andthe individual drop lines (or the window controllers themselves if nodrop lines are present). Drop lines can tap off of the trunk line toreceive power and communication information. Drop lines are notconsidered to be part of the trunk line. In certain implementations, atrunk line may be a 5 wire cable (including one pair of wires for power,one pair of wires for communication, and one ground wire). Similarly,the drop lines may also be 5 wire cable. In some other implementations,the trunk line and/or drop lines may be 4 wire cable (including one pairof wires for power and one pair of wires for communication, without anyseparate ground wire). The trunk line may carry class 1 or class 2 powerin various embodiments.

Sites and Site Monitoring Systems

One example of network entities and a SMS is depicted in FIG. 1A. Asshown there, a SMS 11 interfaces with multiple monitored sites—sites1-5. Each site has one or more switchable optical devices such aselectrochromic windows and one or more controllers designed orconfigured to control switching of the windows. The SMS 11 alsointerfaces with multiple client machines—clients 1-4. The clients may beworkstations, portable computers, tablets, mobile devices such assmartphones, and the like, each able to present information about thefunctioning of devices in the sites. Personnel associated with SMS 11may access this information from one or more of the clients. In someinstances, the clients are configured to communicate with one another.In some implementations, personnel associated with one or more sites mayaccess a subset of the information via a client. In variousimplementations, the client machines run one or more applicationsdesigned or configured to present views and analysis of the opticaldevice information for some or all of the sites.

Site monitoring system 11 may contain various hardware and/or softwareconfigurations. In the depicted embodiment, system 11 includes a datawarehouse 13, an application server 15, and a report server 17. The datawarehouse interfaces directly with the sites. It stores data from thesites in a relational database or other data storage arrangement. In oneembodiment, the data is stored in database or other data repository suchas an Oracle DB, a Sequel DB, or a custom designed database. Datawarehouse 13 may obtain information from any of a number of entitiessuch as master controllers at the sites, network controllers at thesites, window controllers at the sites, building management systems atthe sites, etc. Examples of network arrangements containing a hierarchyof controllers are described below with reference to FIGS. 1B-1D.Application server 15 and report server 17 interface with the clients toprovide application services and reports, respectively. In oneembodiment, the report server runs Tableau, Jump, Actuate, or a customdesigned report generator. In the depicted embodiment, data warehouse 13and application server 15 each provide information to report server 17.Communication between data warehouse 13 and application server 15 isbidirectional, as is communication between data warehouse 13 and reportserver 17 as well as between application server 15 and report server 17.

Examples of site configurations are shown in FIGS. 1B-1D, discussedbelow. In certain embodiments, a site includes (a) multiple switchableoptical devices, each directly controlled by a (window) controller, (b)multiple sensors such as illumination sensors, occupancy sensors,thermal sensors, etc., and (c) one or more higher level controllers suchas network controllers and master controllers.

The SMS may include one or more interfaces for communicating with theremote sites. These interfaces may include ports or connections forsecurely communicating over the internet. Of course, other forms ofnetwork interfaces may be used. The data may be compressed beforesending to the SMS. The SMS may interface with the individual sites viaa wireless connection or cable connection in some cases. In certainembodiments, the SMS is implemented in the “cloud.”

Alternatively or in addition, the SMS may interface with a site via aportable memory component as described below in relation to FIGS. 19Band 19C. The portable memory component may be used locally at a site tostore information that is gathered to monitor the various componentsinstalled at the site. In one example, the portable memory component maybe a USB or other flash drive (e.g., USB, miniUSB, microUSB, etc.) thatplugs into a component (e.g., computer, tablet, smartphone, controller,control panel, etc.) located on-site. In another example, the portablememory component may be provided in a laptop or other portable computer.In some cases, the portable memory component may utilize optical storage(e.g., CD, DVD, Blu-ray, M-DISC, etc.), or magnetic storage (e.g.,cassette tape, floppy disk, etc.). Solid state storage is alsoavailable. The relevant monitoring information may be transferred to theportable memory component at a desired time. Then, the portable memorycomponent can be moved to a second location where the monitoring datamay be analyzed or further transferred for analysis. This secondlocation may be a central location where one or more sites aremonitored. In some examples, this second location may correspond to theplace of business of the window manufacturer or retailer. In anotherexample, the second location is any location at which an Internetconnection is available, such that the relevant data can be transferred(e.g., over the Internet, to any component of the SMS that utilizes suchinformation) and used as needed. The portable memory configuration isparticularly useful for monitoring sites where an Internet connection isnot available.

A SMS can be centralized or distributed and can be accessed fromanywhere using a client application by authorized personnel. The variouscomponents of the system may be located together or apart in one or moresites, a location remote from all sites, in the cloud, and/or in aportable memory component. In certain embodiments, a SMS may run on amaster controller, a network controller, a window controller, a controlpanel, a laptop or other computer, a tablet, a smartphone, etc. Thedevice on which the SMS runs may be connected, continuously orintermittently, to the communication network(s) linking the variousoptically switchable devices at the site(s). Such connection may bewired or wireless.

Additional features, functions, modules, etc. of the SMS may include adata and event reporter, a data and event log and/or a database, dataanalyzer/reporter, and communicator.

While in many embodiments, all or most of the site data analysis,monitoring, and management is performed at the SMS, this is not alwaysthe case. In some implementations, some site level analytics, datacompression, diagnosing, troubleshooting, controlling, correcting,updating etc. is performed at the site, in some cases prior to sendingsite data to the SMS. For example, a window, network, master controller,control panel, or another component at the site may have sufficientprocessing power and other resources for conducting analytics, datacompression, etc., and thus processing may be distributed to takeadvantage of this. This distribution of processing power may not bestatic, that is, depending on what functions are being performed, themonitoring system may draw on remote processors for performing theaforementioned tasks, or not. Thus the monitoring system may beconfigured with the flexibility of using remote processors at the siteor not.

A number of options are available for communicating data from a site tothe SMS. The SMS may be in constant or intermittent communication withthe site(s) that it monitors. In some implementations, the data is sentover a network connection, for example over the Internet. FIG. 19Aillustrates this embodiment, with site 1901 in communication with SMS1902 over Internet connection 1903. In such embodiments, the SMS may bein constant or periodic communication with the site(s) that it monitors.This option is particularly suitable for sites that have high qualityInternet connections.

In some implementations, the relevant data may be stored locally at asite before it is transferred to the SMS. This option may beparticularly suitable for sites that have intermittent or otherwise poorquality Internet connections, or sites that lack Internet connectivity.Where the site has an intermittent or poor quality Internet connection,the data may be sent as shown in FIG. 19A when a suitable Internetconnection is available. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 19B, thedata may be stored within one or more memory components 1905 locatedwithin site 1901. Memory components 1905 may be nonvolatile, and may beprovided in window controllers, network controllers, master controllers,control panels, and/or pigtails (e.g., the wiring between a windowcontroller and an associated optically switchable device), etc. Totransfer the data to the SMS, a portable memory component 1906 may beused to read the data from memory component 1905 (or another componentinstalled at the site) and transfer the data onto the portable memorycomponent 1906. The portable memory component 1906 can then betransferred to the SMS 1902, which can read the relevant data from theportable memory component 1906. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 19C,the data may be transferred to the portable memory component 1906 asdescribed in relation to FIG. 19B, but instead of transferring theportable memory component 1906 directly to the SMS 1902, the portablememory component 1906 may be transferred to a third location 1908 thathas an Internet connection 1903 over which the data can be transferredto the SMS 1902.

In another embodiment, the relevant data may be transmitted(intermittently or continuously) over a cell phone network or similarcommunication network. In certain embodiments, a private cell networkmay be used to transmit the data to the SMS.

In another embodiment, the SMS may be run on-site such that there is noneed to actively transfer the data from the site to the SMS. In somesuch embodiments, the SMS may run on a control panel installed at thesite, or on one or more controllers (e.g., master controllers, networkcontrollers, window controllers, controllers or control panels for aBMS, etc.) installed at a site. Regardless of where a SMS runs, the SMSmay be synced with other applications as desired. In one example, theSMS is configured to sync with an application or program that runs on ahand held device such as a tablet, smartphone, or portable computer. Thehand held device may be used to control or otherwise interact with theSMS.

Data may be stored and/or deleted as desired. In some embodiments, allfingerprint data is retained indefinitely. In another embodiment,initial fingerprint data (e.g., from when the site was first installed)may be retained, while other fingerprint data over time may bediscarded. In some such cases, fingerprint data may be periodicallyretained. For instance, if a site is fingerprinted every day, onefingerprint per week or per month may be retained, while otherfingerprint data may be deleted. Such deletions can save storage spaceand costs. In some embodiments, the latest fingerprint data is alwaysretained. In a particular embodiment, certain older fingerprint data maybe deleted as new fingerprint data is added. For instance, iffingerprint data is generated daily, the SMS may store an initialfingerprint and the latest fingerprint. In another example, the lastweek or month's worth of fingerprint data may be retained, while olderfingerprint data is deleted. In some embodiments, the SMS may generatean alert only when the incoming (new) fingerprint data doesn't match anexisting (e.g., initial) fingerprint. This may save computing power andend user or system bandwidth, as only alert data is presented.

The SMS may utilize some form of authentication to ensure that onlyauthorized users have access to the system. Similarly, certain users mayhave limited access to the system while other users have more completeaccess. This tiered access may be particularly suitable for ensuringthat, e.g., customers have access to an appropriate amount ofinformation about their systems, while simultaneously ensuring that amanufacturer/servicer of the system has full access, and/or ensuringthat a building administrator can view information relevant to thevarious systems (e.g., optically switchable windows, HVAC, etc.) beingmonitored at a site by the SMS. This can prevent unauthorized andaccidental changes to the system that could deleteriously affectperformance, while providing reasonable levels of access for differentusers.

In one example, the SMS has three levels of access depending on thelevel of authorization of the user. In a first level available tobuilding occupants, the building occupant may have access to e.g., (1)view the current tint state of all the optically switchable devices inthe building (or some relevant subset thereof), (2) change the tintstate of any optically switchable devices that the occupant isauthorized to switch (e.g., in the occupant's office), (3) view anywarnings or alerts describing serious errors causing decreasedperformance in the optically switchable devices at the site, and in somecases (4) view less serious warnings or alerts describing errors thatare not yet causing decreased performance in the optically switchabledevices at the site. In a second level available to a buildingadministrator who administers a site, additional access may be permittedto, e.g., (5) view information related to the HVAC system including anyheating, cooling, temperature, and other information available for thesite, and (6) change any settings related to how the HVAC or otherbuilding systems (e.g., security, lighting, etc.) are running at thesite. In a third level available to an entity servicing the opticallyswitchable devices, additional access may be provided to allow theservicer to, e.g., (7) view any relevant warnings or alerts related tothe optically switchable devices, (8) change the tint state of anyoptically switchable devices at the site, (9) update the switchingalgorithms or associated parameters for any optically switchable devicesat the site, (10) update any other parameters (e.g., calibration data,offsets, etc.) affecting how the various components on the network ofoptically switchable devices function at a site. Appropriate levels ofaccess can be determined for a particular user/site based on manydifferent considerations.

Through monitoring of the sensors, controllers, windows, control panels,wiring, and other components at the various installations, a SMS canprovide any one or more of the following services:

a. Customer service including flagging and correcting issues thatarise—the SMS will note when data from a switchable device, a sensor, acontroller, or another component indicates a problem. The problem may beimmediate, such as a malfunction, or an impending problem that can beanticipated, e.g., when a component's performance drifts from specifiedparameters (while still functioning adequately). In response, servicepersonnel may visit the remote location to correct the problem and/orthey may communicate to the remote location that there is a problem. Inthe latter scenario, service personnel may, e.g., reprogram a switchabledevice's controller (and/or another controller at the site such as anetwork or master controller, or another memory component storingrelevant parameters and/or algorithms) to compensate for a drift fromspecification.

In some instances, potential issues are flagged and resolved before theybecome apparent at a site. For example, the aforementioned reprogrammingmay provide adequate performance from the window permanently or provideadequate performance until a field service engineer can visit the siteand replace or repair the unit. Additionally, the monitoring system maybe configured to autocorrect problems with sites. Unless statedotherwise, any of the problems, issues, errors, etc. described hereincan be autocorrected using heuristics in the SMS. In one example, themonitoring system detects a drift from specification in anelectrochromic window (e.g., based on a fingerprint of theelectrochromic window) and automatically reprograms the window'scontroller(s) to compensate for the drift. The system also alertsservice personnel as to this event and may retain a log of such events,e.g. for future forensic and diagnostic purposes.

The reprogramming may involve updating the memory component (e.g.,NVRAM) associated with a particular controller or other component.Various issues described herein can be solved by using the SMS to updateone or more memory components installed at a site. In variousembodiments, switching algorithms and associated parameters (e.g., asdiscussed in relation to FIGS. 2 and 3 ) may be stored in a memorycomponent, and these algorithms/parameters may be reprogrammed by a SMS.The memory component storing the algorithms/parameters may be in thewindow controller in some cases. In other cases, the memory componentstoring the algorithms/parameters may be provided in a chip positionedin the wiring (often referred to as a pigtail) that connects theoptically switchable device with its associated window controller. Insome cases, the memory component storing the algorithms/parameters maybe provided in a network controller, master controller, and/or controlpanel. In such cases, the window controller may communicate with thenetwork controller/master controller/control panel as needed, andexecute the algorithm/parameters stored on the memory component ofanother controller or component. For instance, a network controller mayhave a memory component that stores the switching algorithms/parametersfor each of ten different optically switchable devices and theirassociated window controllers. Each time one of the ten opticallyswitchable devices is instructed to undergo an optical transition, therelevant window controller reads the algorithm/parameters stored on therelevant network controller, then executes the switching algorithm onthe relevant optically switchable device. In another example, thealgorithms/parameters may be stored at a location that is remote fromthe site where the network of optically switchable windows is installed.In one example, the SMS runs remotely to control one or more sites, andthe algorithms/parameters may be stored within a memory component in theSMS. In another example, the algorithms/parameters may be stored in thecloud. The algorithms/parameters may be stored redundantly in differentlocations in some cases.

After (or simultaneously with) any alerts and optional reprogramming,the service personnel can decide the best course of action, e.g.,further reprogramming, replacing the window, replacing the controller,and the like. The occupant may have no indication that anything has goneawry with the window and/or controller, and the occupant's perception ofthe window's performance may be unchanged throughout these events.

Alert notifications may be sent when issues are detected with acomponent. Such alert notifications can be sent to any interestedrecipients including, but not limited to, a manufacturer of thecomponent in question, a maintenance provider for the component inquestion, a BMS system and/or operator, an end user/occupant who owns,possesses, or otherwise uses the component in question, etc.

This system enables quick resolution of problems. For example, adashboard interface may provide the ability to drill down into issuesfrom a high level summary. From the high level summary, the system mayprovide easy access to site-specific context based log file sections,schematics, pictures, fingerprints, and reports. In someimplementations, the system flags an entire site when one or moreproblems with the site are identified. In this way, persons interactingwith the system need not be exposed to minutiae concerning the issueuntil they want such information. Thus, e.g., service personnel canquickly choose a flagged site, and drill down to the actual problem,which may be e.g., a single window with a non-critical issue. Thisallows the service personal to (a) quickly determine where problemsarise, (b) quickly determine the nature of the problem at each site, and(c) prioritize any problems effectively. See FIG. 8A.

The system may also provide look ahead data to a site's other systemssuch as HVAC systems, thereby enabling such systems to enhance usercomfort and/or save energy.

b. Customize the installation based on observed usage trends. Userpreferences may be incorporated in a program over time. As an example,the SMS may determine how an end user (e.g., occupant) tries to overridea window control algorithm at particular times of day and uses thisinformation to predict future behavior of the user. It may modify thewindow control algorithm to set tint levels according to the learneduser preference.

c. Deploy learned approaches to other installations (e.g., how to besttint windows when an afternoon thunderstorm approaches). There arebenefits achieved in using the collective experience and informationfrom an installed base of switchable device networks. For example, ithelps to fine tune control algorithms, customize window/network productsfor a particular market segment, and/or test new ideas (e.g., controlalgorithms, sensor placement).

d. Commissioning—the SMS may be used to commission a network ofelectrochromic windows when they are first installed. With reference toFIG. 8B, which shows an example dashboard that may be used to implementa SMS, an installer can enter a “commissioning mode” that may be used tomore easily commission the windows, window controllers, and othercomponents at the site. Commissioning is further discussed in thefollowing Patent Applications, each of which is herein incorporated byreference in its entirety: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.62/370,174, filed Aug. 2, 2016, and PCT Patent Application No.PCT/US2013/036456, filed Apr. 12, 2013. In certain embodiments, thecommissioning mode may be used to program algorithms, associatedparameters, and any other related information for controlling opticaltransitions on the optically switchable devices at a site. Thesealgorithms, parameters, and related information may be programmed intoone or more memory components that may be associated with one or morewindow controllers or other controllers. The information that isprogrammed may be provided to the SMS before commissioning begins, forexample. In various embodiments, the commissioning mode may be used todetermine exactly which component(s) are installed at which locations,as well as the associations between the different components. Forexample, the commissioning mode may be used to determine which windowcontrollers are associated with which optically switchable devices, andthe location of each of the window controllers and optically switchabledevices.

e. Observe and manage status of sites and components within sites. TheSMS can be used to monitor and observe the status of various componentsinstalled at a site. For instance, the current tint state (as well astint history) of any optically switchable device (or group of devices)can be determined based on information in the SMS. In embodiments wherethe SMS is in constant communication with the site(s) it manages, thiscan be done remotely and in real time. The SMS can also be used todetermine the switching algorithms and associated parameters for anoptically switchable device, for example by reading such informationfrom wherever it is stored (e.g., within a memory component that may beassociated with an optically switchable window, window controller,network controller, master controller, etc.) and transmitting it to theSMS. As mentioned above, these algorithms and parameters can be updatedas desired by the SMS. Any jobs undertaken at a site can be similarlymonitored and managed by the SMS. The SMS can be used to efficientlydisplay many useful types of information, including, but not limited to,any of the parameters, algorithms, status indicators, warnings, tintstates, transmissivity levels, reports, and other data described herein.In a particular example, the SMS displays the transmissivity levelassociated with each particular tint state (e.g., tintl, tint2, etc.)for each window or set of windows.

f. Issue commands to optically switchable devices and other componentswithin sites, and update the switching characteristics or otherparameters associated with various optically switchable devices. The SMScan be used to issue commands to optically switchable windows,controllers, and other components within a site. Further, as mentionedabove, the SMS can be used to update algorithms and parameters thataffect the switching behavior of the optically switchable devices. Theremay be many reasons to make this type of change. In one examplementioned above, the algorithms/parameters may be updated to address aproblem that has arisen (e.g., a degradation in an optically switchabledevice or other component). In another example, updates may be made toadjust the tint state and/or switching characteristics to addresscustomer preferences. For example, a set of optically switchable windowsmay come with two pre-set tint states: tint1 at 10% transmissivity andtint2 at 50% transmissivity. A customer may request that tint1 is moreopaque and tint 2 is more clear. A servicer can use the SMS to updatethe relevant parameters for the optically switchable windows in questionsuch that tint1 only provides 5% transmissivity and tint2 provides 60%transmissivity. In other words, the SMS can be used to tailor the tintstates for a particular customer. Likewise, the SMS can update theswitching algorithms/parameters to affect the switching speed and otherswitching characteristics, as desired. In a particular example, aservicer selects a particular transmissivity level to be associated witha particular tint state (e.g., selecting that the tint state “tint1”should be at 5% transmissivity, etc.) for an optically switchablewindow. The selection may be made when the window is first installed, orduring a later update. The servicer provider assigns the desiredtransmissivity level to the relevant tint state for the relevant window,this assignment is communicated to the SMS, and the SMS automaticallycalculates and provides the control parameters and/or algorithms thatthe optically switchable window and its associated window controllerwill use to achieve the desired transmissivity levels. Similarly, a setof optically switchable windows may becontrolled/programmed/reprogrammed together in this manner. In some suchcases, the set of optically switchable windows may be provided togetherin a zone of windows. These same types of switching behavior/parameterchanges can also be made in cases where an optically switchable deviceneeds to be fine-tuned, for example because it is functioningout-of-specification. Examples of parameters that may be updated toaffect the switching behavior of an optically switchable device aredescribed further in relation to FIGS. 2 and 3 .

g. Restoring a site after a malfunction. In certain cases, the SMS maybe used to restore a site if the site experiences operational problems.For instance, if a site partially or wholly goes down, the SMS may usestored information (e.g., such information may be provided infingerprints, log files, configuration files, databases, etc.) torestore the site to functionality. In some cases, a storm or other eventmay destroy or otherwise wipe one or more memory components that storealgorithms and related parameters for transitioning optically switchabledevices. After any critical hardware is repaired or replaced (ifneeded), the SMS may provide all of the information needed to programthe memory components that were destroyed or erased.

h. Detecting changes in the system. The SMS may also determine when acomponent has been removed or replaced. In response to a determinationthat a component has been removed or replaced, the SMS may generate areturn merchandise authorization (RMA) to encourage and facilitatereturn of the component to the manufacturer, vendor, or servicer of thecomponent. The determination that a component has been removed orreplaced may also trigger warranty information to be sent to thecustomer and/or manufacturer/vendor/servicer of the component. Thedetermination may be made based on a comparison of fingerprints taken atdifferent times, which may indicate (e.g., based on the ID number of therelevant component and/or the performance of the relevant component)that an expected component is missing and/or that a new, unexpected partis present.

i. Updating files to reflect changes in the system. Where the SMSdetects that a change has been made in the system, the SMS mayautomatically update the records associated with the components thatwere changed, removed, replaced, added, etc. The records that areupdated may be configuration files or other types of files and/ordatabases. In one example, a network of electrochromic windows isinstalled in a building, each electrochromic window being associatedwith a window controller that is assigned a particular identificationnumber referred to as its CANID. When the network is first implemented,a window controller having identification number CANID123 is installedat location WC10 and controls an IGU referred to as IG15. After sometime, a problem develops with the controller at location WC10, and aservicer replaces it with a new window controller having identificationnumber CANID456. As described above, the SMS may automatically detectthis change in window controllers. Specifically, the SMS detects that(a) the window controller CANID123 is no longer in the system; (b) thewindow controller CANID456 is newly installed in the system; and (c) thewindow controller having identification number CANID456 is connected toIG15. Based on these observations, the SMS may automatically update therecords associated with the relevant components. For instance, the SMSmay automatically change a configuration file to associate location WC10with the window controller having identification number CANID456, and itmay automatically provide the relevant parameters and/or algorithmspreviously used by the window controller CANID123 to the new windowcontroller CANID456. These same techniques can be used for manydifferent types of changes to the system, including but not limited to,swapping of components, replacement of components, upgrade ofcomponents, etc.

Fingerprinting

Fingerprinting a component at a site generally involves identifying andrecording multiple parameters related to the component at a particulartime. Any component that forms part of a network of optically switchabledevices at a site can be fingerprinted.

Examples of such components include, but are not limited to, (1)windows, (2) optically switchable devices, (3) sensors (e.g., occupancysensors, temperature/heat sensors, photosensors, motion sensors, etc.),(4) controllers (e.g., window controllers, network controllers, andmaster controllers), (5) power distribution network components (e.g.,power sources, control panels, energy wells, trunk lines, drop lines,power insert lines, connectors, etc.), (6) communication networkcomponents (e.g., transmitters, receivers, wiring between differentcontrollers, e.g., between a window controller and a network controller,and/or between a network controller and a master controller, etc.), (7)other connections such as a connection between a window controller and awindow (sometimes referred to as a pigtail connection, which maytransmit power and/or communication information), etc. Variouscomponents at a site may fit into more than one such category.

It is generally expected that a fingerprint for a given component willremain relatively stable over time unless there is a change to thesystem (e.g., changing operating conditions, degradation of a component,etc.). Therefore, comparison of fingerprints for a given component atdifferent times can be used to ensure that the components at the siteare operating as expected. In cases where a fingerprint of a componentdrifts or changes from what is expected, this drift/change can indicatethat the component (or another component affecting the relevantcomponent) is not functioning as desired, and that some remedial actionmay be warranted. The drift/change can be identified by comparing two ormore fingerprints taken at different times. Fingerprints may also beused to balance or otherwise harmonize system components and/orfunction. For example, a group of EC windows is installed, the windowshave substantially the same characteristics. After a number of years,some of the windows are degraded and are replaced with a newergeneration of technology. The remaining older windows' fingerprints are,e.g., used as a basis to adjust control parameters on the older windowsand/or the newly installed windows to make sure that all the windowstint uniformly, e.g. in color and/or switching speed.

In certain embodiments, the windows, controllers, sensors, and/or othercomponents have their performance, characteristics, and/or responsechecked at an initial point in time and thereafter rechecked repeatedly.The data gathered during such checks can be included in the fingerprintfor the relevant component or combination of components. In some cases,recent performance/response measurements are compared with earlierperformance/response measurements to detect trends, deviations,stability, etc. If necessary, adjustments can be made or service can beprovided to address trends or deviations detected during comparisons.For example, a group of photosensors is installed with an EC windowinstallation. After a number of years, some of the sensors' performancehas degraded and are replaced with a newer generation of technology. Theremaining older sensors' fingerprints are, e.g., used as a basis toadjust control parameters on the older sensors and/or the newlyinstalled sensors to make sure that all the controllers are receivingcomparable sensor data.

Parameters that may be recorded in a fingerprint include, but are notlimited to (1) data related to the ID number of the component (which insome cases may be encoded in a 29 bit address), (2) a description of thecomponent, (3) any current/voltage/power data related to the component,including in some cases current/voltage data related to one or morespecific optical transitions, as well as the input/outputcurrent/voltage/power to various components, (4) personalizationpreferences related to the component, (5) algorithms and associatedparameters for driving optical transitions on the component, (6) defaulttint state or other settings for the component, (7) calibration data forthe component (including, but not limited to, analog to digitalconverter gain, I/V offsets and gains, calibration data frommanufacturing, etc.), (8) any information contained in log files orother system files related to the component, and (9) systemconfiguration and layout information related to the component and/oroverall network or system (including, but not limited to, the locationof switchable devices, controllers, and other components,length/position/type/location of various wiring components, etc.). Anycurrent or relevant historical information can be included in afingerprint for a component.

Generally speaking, a fingerprint can be made for each component at thesite. In addition, the site can have a fingerprint that includes thefingerprints of all (or any subset of) the components at the site. Thefingerprints for various components can be combined as desired. In oneexample, a fingerprint for a zone of windows that includes ten opticallyswitchable devices will include the fingerprints for the ten opticallyswitchable devices in the zone, as well as the fingerprints for theassociated window controllers and sensors. Any grouping of fingerprintscan be used. Mismatching sensor type, window type, controller type, etc.can be harmonized by using fingerprint data and adjusting controlparameters to compensate for the differences in order to get e.g.,uniform window switching, optimized switching speed, and the like.

While in many cases a fingerprint for a relevant component may becompared against a previous fingerprint for that same component,fingerprints for different components can also be compared against oneanother. Such comparisons can help identify and diagnose problems thatoccur as the network of optically switchable devices operates over time.

Various different file types and combinations of file types can be usedto store the information in a fingerprint. In one example, the relevantinformation is stored in a configuration file. Other types of files anddatabases may also be used to store the relevant information in afingerprint.

In some embodiments, windows, sensors, controllers, and/or othercomponents are checked and optionally fingerprinted at the factory. Forexample, a switchable window may go through a burn in procedure duringwhich relevant parameters can be extracted. Windows exhibiting problemscan have their current performance compared against earlier fingerprintsto optionally determine whether the problem developed duringshipping/installation or during operation. Fingerprints can also begenerated, optionally automatically, when the devices are commissioned(e.g., installed at a site and initially detected and cataloged).Fingerprinting can occur periodically in some embodiments. For instance,each component (or some subset of the components) at a site can befingerprinted daily, weekly, monthly, yearly, etc. In these or othercases, fingerprinting can be done non-periodically, for example inresponse to a request from a user or from the SMS, or in response to thefailure of one or more components at the site, or in response to a setof rules governing when fingerprinting should occur (e.g., one such rulemay indicate that fingerprinting should occur after there is a powerfailure).

In various embodiments, fingerprints can be stored in a memoryassociated directly with the component being fingerprinted or in memoryassociated with another component at the site. The SMS may reprogram thememory associated with the component to address changes in performanceor otherwise update the system for improved performance, as describedfurther herein.

In certain embodiments, during commissioning at a new site, the SMScompares a designed site layout to the actual, as commissioned layout,to flag any discrepancy at time of commissioning. This may be used tocorrect a device, controller, etc. at the site or to correct designdocument. In some cases, the SMS simply verifies that all windowcontrollers, network controllers, zones, etc. match between designdocument and actual site implementation. In other cases, a moreextensive analysis is conducted, which may verify cable lengths etc. Forexample, measured resistance values in installed wire runs can becompared with known resistance characteristics and length of the wireruns. Measuring a change in the resistance value can indicate, e.g.,that the wire is degrading or that the wrong length of wire wasinstalled. The comparison may also identify other installation problemssuch as incorrect photosensor orientations, defective photosensors,etc., and optionally automatically correct such problems. As indicated,during commissioning, the SMS may obtain and store initial fingerprintsof many or all individual components in the site, includingvoltage/current measurements at switchable optical devices for differentdevice transitions. Such fingerprints may be used to periodically checkthe site and detect degradation in upstream hardware (i.e. wiring, powersupplies, uninterrupted power supply (UPS)), as well as windowcontrollers and switchable optical devices. Using a UPS in a switchableoptical window network is described in PCT Patent Application No.PCT/US15/38667, filed Jun. 30, 2015, which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

Data Monitored

The data gathered for a particular component will depend on the type ofcomponent being fingerprinted, as well as the degree of fingerprintingthat is desired. For instance, different levels of fingerprinting may beused for different purposes. A short fingerprint for an opticallyswitchable device may include a limited set of information such as theID number of the optically switchable device, and the I/V data relatedto a single standardized optical transition from a known startingoptical state to a known ending optical state. A more detailedfingerprint may include additional information such as a description ofthe optically switchable device, information regarding the location ofthe optically switchable device, and I/V data related to a series ofstandardized optical transitions with known starting and ending opticalstates.

The following description presents examples of some types of siteinformation that may be monitored by a SMS. The information may beprovided in one or more fingerprints for one or more componentsinstalled at the site. The information may be provided from varioussources such as voltage and/or current versus time data for individualswitchable devices or other components, sensor output versus time,communications and network events and logs for controller networks, etc.The time variable may be associated with external events or conditionssuch as solar position, weather, power outages, etc. Information with aperiodic component may be analyzed in the frequency domain as well asthe time domain. Some of the information described in this section maybe considered in the context of the figures presented herein.

1. From a Window Controller's (or Other Controller's) I/V Data:

a. Peak current experienced during an optical transition [this issometimes produced during application of a ramp to drive voltage forproducing an optical transition. See FIGS. 2 and 3 . Unexpected changesin peak current can indicate that a switchable device is not operatingas expected.]

b. Hold (leakage) current [this may be observed at an end state of aswitchable device. A rate of increasing leakage current may correlatewith the likelihood that a short has developed in the device. Sometimesa short causes an undesirable blemish such as a halo in the device.These may be field serviceable using, e.g., a portable defect mitigationapparatus such as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/859,623, filed Apr. 9, 2013, which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.]

c. Voltage compensation required [Voltage compensation is the change involtage required to account for the voltage drop in the conductive pathfrom the power supply to the switchable device. Unexpected changes inthe voltage compensation required can indicate a problem with the powersupply, wiring, and/or switchable device.]

d. Total charge transferred [measured over a period of time and/orduring a certain state of the switchable device (e.g., during drive orduring hold). Unexpected changes in the total charge transferred over aparticular time period can indicate that a switchable device is notoperating as expected.]

e. Power consumption [Power consumption may be calculated by (I*V) perwindow or controller. Unexpected changes in power consumption canindicate a number of problems with various components on the network.]

f. Comparison with other WC (window controllers) on the same façade withidentical loads [This allows the monitoring system to determine that aparticular controller has an issue, rather than a particular devicecontrolled by the controller. For example, a window controller may beconnected to five insulated glass units, each exhibiting the same issue.Because it is unlikely that five devices will all suffer from the sameissue, the monitoring system may conclude that the controller is toblame. This same comparison can be made among other types of controllerssuch as network controllers.]

g. Instances of abnormal profiles: e.g., double tinting/double clearing[Double tinting/clearing refers to a situation where a normal drivecycle (voltage and/or current profile) is applied and it is found thatthe switchable device has not switched, in which case a second drivecycle must be conducted. See FIG. 12 . Such instances can indicate thata switchable device is not operating as expected.]

h. Switching characteristics vs. external weather [At certaintemperatures or weather conditions, the monitoring system expectsparticular switching results or performance. Deviations from theexpected response suggest an issue with a controller, a switchabledevice, and/or a sensor or other component on the network.]

The changes and comparisons described here can be produced from datacollected at, e.g., the window controller level, the network controllerlevel, the master controller level, the control panel level, etc.Historical data (days, weeks, months, years) is preserved in the SMS,and such data can be used for comparison, both between different sitesand within the same site over time. With such data, variations due totemperature can be identified and ignored, if appropriate. The variouschanges, alone or in combination, may provide a signature of a problemin a window, a controller, a sensor, another component, etc. Any one ormore of the foregoing parameters may identify an increase in impedanceat any position from the power supply to (and including) the switchabledevice. This path may include the switchable device, a bus bar connectedto the device, a lead attach to the bus bar, a connector to the leadattach or IGU, a group of wires (sometimes called a “pigtail”) betweenthe connector (or IGU) and the power supply. As an example, a change inany or more of parameters 1 a-1 h may indicate corrosion caused by waterin a window frame. A model using a combination of these parameters mayrecognize the signature of such corrosion and accurately report thisissue.

2. From Window Controller State and Zone State Changes:

a. Any window controller getting out of sync with its zone—for example,this may be due to communication issues [Example: If there are multiplecontrollers in a zone of a site, and one of these controllers doesbehave as expected, the SMS may conclude that the aberrant controller isnot receiving or following commands over a communications network. TheSMS can take action to isolate the source of the problem and correct it]

b. Longest switching time for the zone and adjustments to make all glassswitch at the same rate [The SMS may identify a particular switchabledevice that is not switching at a desired rate or an expected rate. SeeFIG. 15 . Without replacing or physically modifying the device, themonitoring site may modify the switching algorithm (e.g., by updatingone or more switching algorithms or associated parameters stored in thememory (e.g., NVRAM) of the relevant switchable device) so that thedevice switches at the expected rate. For example, if a device isobserved to switch too slowly, its ramp to drive or drive voltage may beincreased. This can be done remotely or on-site, and automatically incertain embodiments.]

3. From System Logs:

a. Any change in frequency of communication errors—increase in noise ordevice degradation [The received communications from a controller may beslowed or stopped. Or, the sent communications may not be acknowledgedor acted upon. These changes can indicate a problem with thecommunication network or with a particular controller or other componentshowing decreased frequency of communication errors or other messages.]

b. Connection degradation if a pigtail (or other connection) startsshowing up as disconnected [In certain embodiments, a connector, e.g.,which may include a memory and/or logic, provides a signal indicatingthat it is becoming disconnected. A window controller or othercontroller may receive such signals, which can be logged at the remoteSMS. See FIG. 13 . A further description of pigtails and otherelectrical connection features is presented in U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 14/363,769, filed Nov. 27, 2014, which is incorporated hereinby reference in its entirety.]

4. From Photosensor or Other Sensor Data:

a. Any degradation over time [This may be manifest as a signal magnitudereduction. It may be caused by various factors including damage to thesensor, dirt on the sensor, an obstruction appearing in front of thesensor, etc.]

b. Correlation with external weather and time [Normally, the SMS willassume that the photosensor output should correlate with the weather andtime (at least if the photosensor senses external light levels).]

c. Comparison with zone state change to ensure that a site's windowcontrol technology is working correctly [The SMS normally expects thatthe zone will change state when its photosensor output meets certainstate-change criteria. For example, if the sensor indicates a transitionto sunny conditions, the switchable devices in the zone should tint. Incertain embodiments, there are one or more photosensors per zone. SeeFIGS. 14A-14D.]

d. Any changes in surroundings after commissioning [As an example, atree grows in front of one or more sensors, a building is constructed infront of one or more sensors or a construction scaffold is erected infront of one or more sensors. Such changes in surroundings may beevidenced by multiple sensors affected by the changes being similarlyaffected (e.g., their photosensor outputs go down at the same time).Among other purposes, commissioning serves to provide information aboutthe deployment of sensors, controllers, and/or switchable opticaldevices in a site. Commissioning is further described in PCT ApplicationNo. PCT/US2013/036456, filed Apr. 12, 2013, which is incorporated hereinby reference in its entirety.]

5. From Log File Analysis of Driver of State Changes:

a. Overrides by zone—further tuning of control algorithms for the zone[The SMS may learn the requirements of a particular site and adapt itslearning algorithm to address the requirements. Various types ofadaptive learning are described in PCT Application No.PCT/US2013/036456, filed Apr. 12, 2013, which was previouslyincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.]

b. Mobile device vs. wall switch overrides—consumer preference [Whenoverrides are observed, the monitoring system may note which type ofdevice initiated the override, e.g., a wall switch or a mobile device.More frequent use of wall switches may indicate a training issue or aproblem with the window application on the mobile device.]

c. Time/Frequency of various states—usefulness of each state [Whenmultiple tint states are available, and some are underused, it mayindicate to the remote monitoring system that there is an issue with aparticular state. The system may change the transmissivity or othercharacteristic of the state.]

d. Variation by market segment [The frequency of use (popularity) ofcertain states or other properties of a site's switching characteristicsmay correlate with a market segment. When a SMS learns this, it maydevelop and provide market-specific algorithms. Examples of marketsegments include airports, hospitals, office buildings, schools,government buildings, etc. In some cases, market segments can correspondto specific geographic areas, e.g., New England, Midwest, West,Southwest, Northwest, Southern United States, etc.]

e. Total number of transitions—Expected number of cycles over warrantyperiod and life by market segment. [This may provide in situ lifecycleinformation. See FIG. 12 .]

6. Energy Calculations:

a. Energy saved by zone by season, total system energy saving by season[The SMS may compare energy savings from multiple sites to identifyalgorithms, device types, structures, etc. that provide improvements.The sites can be compared, and this comparison can be used to improvelower performing sites. See FIGS. 14B and 14D.]

b. Provide advanced energy load information to AC system by zone[Buildings have large thermal masses, so air conditioning and heating donot take effect immediately. Using a solar calculator or otherpredictive tools (described elsewhere herein), the SMS can provideadvance notice to HVAC systems so they can begin a transition early. Itmay be desirable to provide this information by zone. Moreover, a SMSmay tint one or more windows or zones to aid the HVAC system in doingits job. For example, if a heat load is expected on a particular facade,the SMS may provide advance notice to the HVAC system and also tintwindows on that side of the building to reduce what would otherwise bethe HVAC's cooling requirements. Depending upon the tinting speed of thewindows, the SMS can calculate and time tinting and HVAC activationsequences appropriately. For example, if the windows tint slowly, theHVAC activation may be sooner, if they tint quickly, then the HVACsignal to action may be delayed or ramped more slowly to reduce load onthe system. See FIGS. 14B and 14D.]

7. From the Control Panel:

a. Power input and output of the control panel. [The input and outputpower of the control panel can be monitored. Any unexpected changes ininput power can be correlated with power outages or related events. Anyunexpected changes in output power may be used to identify cases wherethe control panel is not operating as expected and may need maintenance.The input and output I/V data for the control panel can be similarlymonitored.]

8. From the Trunk Line or Other Wiring:

a. Voltage drop over each relevant wired connection to determinerelative location of different components [The voltage drop over a wireor set of wires can be measured to determine the length of wiring, andtherefore the relative location of the components at each end of thewiring. This method can be used to determine the relative location of aset of window controllers, for instance. With reference to FIG. 20 , avoltage drop can be measured between the control panel 2001 and eachwindow controller 2002 a, 2002 b, and 2002 c. For optically switchablewindow 2003 a, the voltage drop will correspond to the decrease involtage experienced as the power is transferred from the control panel2001, over trunk line 2005 and drop line 2004 a, before reaching thewindow controller 2002 a. Similarly, for optically switchable window2003 b, the voltage drop will correspond to the decrease in voltageexperienced as the power is transferred from the control panel 2001,over trunk line 2005 and drop line 2004 b, before reaching the windowcontroller 2002 b, and for optically switchable window 2003 c, thevoltage drop will correspond to the decrease in voltage experienced asthe power is transferred from the control panel 2001, over trunk line2005 and drop line 2004 c, before reaching window controller 2002 c.These voltage drops can be compared against one another to determine therelative position of window controllers 2002 a-2002 c. Generallyspeaking, longer line lengths correspond to greater voltage drops overthe same line. Therefore, the voltage drop between the control panel andwindow controller 2002 a will be smallest, indicating that windowcontroller 2002 a is closest to the control panel, while the voltagedrop between the control panel and window controller 2002 c will belargest, indicating that window controller 2002 c is farthest from thecontrol panel. This voltage drop comparison may be done to confirm thatthe various window controllers are installed where they are expected tobe installed. If the voltage drop going to one window controller ishigher than expected and the voltage drop going to a second windowcontroller is lower than expected, it may indicate that these windowcontrollers were accidentally switched during installation. Voltagedrops can be measured between any two components capable of reporting anexperienced (e.g., input or output) voltage. This technique can be usedto determine which components are connected to one another and by whichlines.]

b. Voltage drop over each relevant wired connection to verify expectedwire lengths [As explained above, the voltage drop over a wire or set ofwires can be measured to determine the length of wiring present. Inaddition to comparing the relative voltage drops over different lengthsof wiring, the absolute voltage drop over a particular length of wiringcan also be useful. For example, with reference to FIG. 20 , an expectedvoltage drop can be calculated between, e.g., the control panel 2001 andthe window controller 2002 a. This expected voltage drop can becalculated based on the impedance of the trunk line 2005, as well as theexpected length of the trunk line 2005, and the current travelingthrough the trunk line 2005. The impedance and length of the drop line2004 a may also be considered, although in many embodiments the lengthof the drop line 2004 a is negligible in comparison to the length of thetrunk line 2005, and the drop line 2004 a can therefore be ignored inthe calculation. The expected voltage drop can be compared against anactual voltage drop experienced between the control panel 2001 and thewindow controller 2002 a. In cases where the actual voltage drop islarger than the expected voltage drop, the length of the trunk line 2005between the control panel 2001 and the connector 2006 a may be longerthan expected/designed. This can be confirmed by comparing the actualand expected voltage drops between the control panel 2001 and the otherwindow controllers 2002 b-c. An actual voltage drop larger than anexpected voltage drop can also indicate that the trunk line 2005 has ahigher than expected impedance. Conversely, where the actual voltagedrop is smaller than the expected voltage drop, the relevant length ofwiring may be shorter than expected/designed, or may have lowerimpedance than expected. The actual voltage drop between two componentscan be used to verify the length of wiring installed between the twocomponents, and when necessary, update a site layout (e.g., map andrelated information) to reflect the as-installed setup. In oneembodiment, the SMS updates one or more files describing the layout ofthe power distribution network to more accurately reflect the length ofa particular wire or set of wires based on a measured voltage dropacross the wire or set of wires between two or more components on thepower distribution network. In some cases, the SMS may update one ormore parameters to address the fact that a component at the site isreceiving (or delivering) a different voltage than was originallyexpected when the system was designed. For instance, an as-designednetwork may expect a particular window controller to have an inputvoltage of about 10V. If the voltage actually reaching this windowcontroller is only 9V due to a larger-than-expected voltage drop beforereaching the window controller, the SMS may update one or moreparameters associated with the window controller to accommodate thelower-than-expected input voltage at the window controller. In anotherexample, the SMS may update one or more parameters associated with thecontrol panel or other power source, e.g., to cause the controlpanel/power source to deliver a voltage greater than originallydesigned, such that the power reaching the window controller has thedesired voltage. In another example, in response to a voltage drop thatis smaller or larger than expected, a manual inspection may be made, andif appropriate, a different trunk line (or other wiring) may beinstalled.]

Auto-Detection and Auto-Correction by the Site Monitoring System

While much of the discussion herein focuses on systems for detecting anddiagnosing issues with networks of switchable optical devices, a furtheraspect of the disclosure concerns a SMS that leverages thesecapabilities to automatically collect data, automatically detectproblems and potential problems, automatically notify personnel orsystems of problems or potential problems, automatically correcting suchproblems or potential problems, and/or automatically interfacing withbuilding or corporate systems to analyze data, implement corrections,generate service tickets, etc.

Examples of the Automatic Features of Site Monitoring Systems:

1. If there is a slow degradation in current to a window (or othersignature of non-fatal issue with switching current received by awindow), the SMS can auto-correct this issue by, for example, directinga controller associated with the window to increase the switchingvoltage to the window. The system may calculate an increase in voltageusing empirical and/or analytic techniques that relate changes incurrent drawn or optical switching properties to changes in appliedvoltage. The changes in voltage may be limited to a range such as arange defining safe levels of voltage or current for the devices in thewindow network. The changes to the voltage may be implemented by the SMSreprogramming one or more memories storing tint transition instructionsfor the window in question. For example, a memory associated with thewindow, e.g. in a pigtail of the window or otherwise associated with awindow controller or other controller, is programmed from the factory tocontain window parameters that allow a window controller to determineappropriate drive voltages for the electrochromic coating associatedwith the window. If there is degradation or similar issues, one or moreof these parameters may need to change and the SMS may reprogram thememory to cause this change. This may be done, e.g., if the windowcontroller automatically generates drive voltage parameters based on thestored values in the memory (e.g., a memory associated with the pigtailor at another location). That is, rather than the SMS sending new driveparameters to the window controller, the system may simply reprogram thememory associated with the window (wherever such memory resides) so thewindow controller can determine new drive parameters itself. Of course,the SMS may also provide the tint transition parameters to the windowcontroller or another controller, which can then apply them according toits own internal protocol, which may involve storing them in anassociated memory or providing them to a higher level networkcontroller.

2. If there is a slow degradation in a photosensor (or other signatureof non-fatal issue with a sensor) causing a lower than accurate reading,the SMS can auto-correct the sensor reading before using the reading forother purposes such as input for optical device switching algorithms. Incertain embodiments, the SMS applies an offset within some limit tocompensate a photosensor reading. This allows for, e.g., uninterruptedoccupant comfort and automatic adjustment of window tinting for improvedaesthetics. Again, for example, the occupant may not realize that any ofthese changes to the window and/or related components or software hasoccurred.

3. If the system detects that a room is occupied or learns that the roomis commonly occupied, and the tinting algorithm applies a tint after theglare begins, the SMS may automatically adjust the tint algorithm tostart earlier, when the room is occupied or predicted to be occupied. Incertain embodiments, glare is detected by a photosensor located in aroom or outside a room where the glare occurs. The algorithm may employan occupancy sensor located within the room.

4. When the system detects a difference in tinting times for differentwindows in the same facade, it may cause all windows to tint at the sametime and, if desired, to the same tint level by auto adjusting rampingvoltage parameters (if the occupant wants whole facade tinting at thesame time).

5. The SMS may detect a window controller that is out of synchronizationwith other window controllers for a group of windows in a zone or afacade. The description of FIGS. 18A-18H contains a detailed explanationof such example. The system may then bring the window back into syncautomatically by adjusting the applied switching voltage or otherparameters affecting switching behavior, or by taking other remedialaction within its control.

Ancillary Services

The remote monitoring system may collect and use local climateinformation, site lighting information, site thermal load information,and/or weather feed data for various purposes. A few examples follow.

Weather Service Rating: There are existing services that rely on weatherfeeds/data to sell and/or enable their services. For example, “smartsprinklers” and even landscaping companies using conventional sprinklersystems use weather data to program their watering patterns. Theseweather data are often local, e.g., zip code based data, and there aremultiple sources of weather data. In certain embodiments, the remotemonitoring system uses actual data it collects to rate what weatherservices predict for any given area. The system may determine whichweather service is most accurate and provide that rating to servicesthat rely on weather feeds. Any given weather service may be moreaccurate depending on the geographical area, e.g., weather service Amight be best in San Francisco, but not as good in the Santa ClaraValley (where service B is better). The system can provide a ratingservice identifying which weather feed is more reliable for a givenarea, by collecting its actual sensor data, doing statistical analysis,and providing to customers as valuable intelligence. This information isuseful for entities other than sites; examples include sprinklercompanies, companies that use or control solar panels, outdoor venues,any entity that relies on the weather.

Weather Service: A SMS can collect sensor data live over largegeographic areas. In certain embodiments, it provides this data toweather services so that they can more accurately provide weather data.In other words, weather services rely heavily on satellite imagery andlarger sky pattern data feeds. Information from one more sites withswitchable optical devices and associated sensors, widely deployed, canprovide real time ground level information on sun, clouds, heat, etc.Combining these two data, more accurate weather forecasts can beachieved. This approach may be viewed as creating a sensor net acrossthe country or other geographic region where multiple sites exist.

Consumer Behavior: Indirect data from end user patterns can be gleaned,e.g., by knowing when/how end users tint or bleach optically tintablewindows in any geographical location or region. In certain embodiments,data collected by the SMS is analyzed for patterns that may have valueto other consumer products vendors. For example, “heavy tinters” mayindicate: aversion to sun/heat, the fact that high sun levels arepresent, the need for more water in a region, a region ripe for moresunglasses sales, etc. Likewise, “heavy bleachers” may indicate oppositetrends that will be useful to vendors that sell, e.g.: sun lamps, tea,books, heating pads, furnaces, tanning booths, and the like.

Building Management System (BMS)

A BMS is a computer-based control system installed at a site (e.g., abuilding) that can monitor and control the site's mechanical andelectrical equipment such as ventilation, lighting, power systems,elevators, fire systems, and security systems. In certain embodiments, aBMS may be designed or configured to communicate with a SMS to receivecontrol signals and communicate monitored information from systems atthe site. A BMS consists of hardware, including interconnections bycommunication channels to a computer or computers, and associatedsoftware for maintaining conditions in the site according to preferencesset by the occupants, site manager, and/or SMS manager. For example, aBMS may be implemented using a local area network, such as Ethernet. Thesoftware can be based on, for example, internet protocols and/or openstandards. One example of software is software from Tridium, Inc. (ofRichmond, Virginia). One communications protocol commonly used with aBMS is BACnet (building automation and control networks).

Platforms for communicating among one or more otherwise independentsystems involved in controlling functions of buildings or other siteshaving switchable optical devices deployed therein are further discussedin PCT Patent Application No. PCT/US15/64555, filed Dec. 8, 2015, whichis herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

A BMS is most common in a large building, and typically functions atleast to control the environment within the building. For example, a BMSmay control temperature, carbon dioxide levels, and humidity within abuilding. Typically, there are many mechanical devices that arecontrolled by a BMS such as heaters, air conditioners, blowers, vents,and the like. To control the building environment, a BMS may turn on andoff these various devices under defined conditions. A core function of atypical modern BMS is to maintain a comfortable environment for thebuilding's occupants while minimizing heating and cooling costs/demand.Thus, a modern BMS is used not only to monitor and control, but also tooptimize the synergy between various systems, for example, to conserveenergy and lower building operation costs.

In some embodiments, a window controller is integrated with a BMS, wherethe window controller is configured to control one or moreelectrochromic windows or other tintable windows. In one embodiment,each of the one or more tintable windows includes at least one all solidstate and inorganic electrochromic device. In another embodiment, eachof the one or more tintable windows includes only all solid state andinorganic electrochromic devices. In another embodiment, one or more ofthe tintable windows are multistate electrochromic windows, as describedin U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/851,514, filed on Aug. 5, 2010,and entitled “Multipane Electrochromic Windows.”

FIG. 1B depicts a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a site network1100 having a BMS that manages a number of systems of a building,including security systems, heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC),lighting of the building, power systems, elevators, fire systems, andthe like. Security systems may include magnetic card access, turnstiles,solenoid driven door locks, surveillance cameras, burglar alarms, metaldetectors, and the like. Fire systems may include fire alarms and firesuppression systems including a water plumbing control. Lighting systemsmay include interior lighting, exterior lighting, emergency warninglights, emergency exit signs, and emergency floor egress lighting. Powersystems may include the main power, backup power generators, anduninterrupted power source (UPS) grids.

Also, the BMS manages a control system 1102. In this example, controlsystem 1102 is depicted as a distributed network of window controllersincluding a master controller, 1103, intermediate network controllers,1105 a and 1105 b, and end or leaf controllers 1110. End or leafcontrollers 1110 may be similar to window controller 450 described withrespect to FIGS. 4 and 5 . For example, master controller 1103 may be inproximity to the BMS, and each floor of building 1101 may have one ormore intermediate network controllers 1105 a and 1105 b, while eachwindow of the building has its own end or leaf controller 1110. In thisexample, each of controllers 1110 controls a specific tintable window ofbuilding 1101. In certain embodiments, control system 1102 and/or mastercontroller 1103 communicates with the SMS or component thereof such as adata warehouse. Intermediate network controllers 1105 a and 1105 b, aswell as end or leaf controllers 1110 may also communicate with the SMSor a component thereof in certain embodiments.

Each of controllers 1110 can be in a separate location from the tintablewindow that it controls, or can be integrated into the tintable window.For simplicity, only ten tintable windows of building 1101 are depictedas controlled by control system 1102. In a typical setting there may bea large number of tintable windows in a building controlled by controlsystem 1102. Control system 1102 need not be a distributed network ofwindow controllers. For example, a single end controller which controlsthe functions of a single tintable window also falls within the scope ofthe embodiments disclosed herein, as described above. Advantages andfeatures of incorporating tintable window controllers as describedherein with BMSs are described below in more detail and in relation toFIG. 1B, where appropriate.

One aspect of the disclosed embodiments is a BMS including amultipurpose window controller as described herein. By incorporatingfeedback from a window controller, a BMS can provide, for example,enhanced: 1) environmental control, 2) energy savings, 3) security, 4)flexibility in control options, 5) improved reliability and usable lifeof other systems due to less reliance thereon and therefore lessmaintenance thereof, 6) information availability and diagnostics, 7)effective use of staff, and various combinations of these, because thetintable windows can be automatically controlled and updated as desired.In certain embodiments, any one or more of these functions can beprovided by the SMS, which may communicate with windows and windowcontrollers directly or indirectly, via a BMS or through another programor application.

In some embodiments, a BMS may not be present or a BMS may be presentbut may not communicate with a master controller (or other controller)or communicate at a high level with a master controller such as when aSMS communicates with the control system directly. In these embodiments,a master controller can provide, for example, enhanced: 1) environmentalcontrol, 2) energy savings, 3) flexibility in control options, 4)improved reliability and usable life of other systems due to lessreliance thereon and therefore less maintenance thereof, 5) informationavailability and diagnostics, 6) effective use of staff, and variouscombinations of these, because the tintable windows can be automaticallycontrolled and updated as desired. In these embodiments, maintenance onthe BMS would not interrupt control of the tintable windows.

In certain embodiments, a BMS may be in communication with a SMS toreceive control signals and other information and transmit monitoreddata from one or more systems in a site network. In other embodiments,the SMS may be in direct communication with the control system and/orother systems in a site network to manage the systems.

FIG. 1C depicts a block diagram of an embodiment of a site network 1200for a site (e.g., building). As noted above, the network 1200 may employany number of different communication protocols, including BACnet. Asshown, site network 1200 includes a master controller 1205, a lightingcontrol panel 1210, a BMS 1215, a security control system, 1220, and auser console, 1225. These different controllers and systems at the sitemay be used to receive input from and/or control a HVAC system 1230,lights 1235, security sensors 1240, door locks 1245, cameras 1250, andtintable windows 1255, of the site.

Lighting Control Panel for Building

Master controller 1205 may function in a similar manner as mastercontroller 1103 described with respect to FIG. 1B. Lighting controlpanel 1210 may include circuits to control the interior lighting, theexterior lighting, the emergency warning lights, the emergency exitsigns, and the emergency floor egress lighting. Lighting control panel1210 also may include occupancy sensors in the rooms of the site. BMS1215 may include a computer server that receives data from and issuescommands to the other systems and controllers of site network 1200. Forexample, BMS 1215 may receive data from and issue commands to each ofthe master controller 1205, lighting control panel 1210, and securitycontrol system 1220. Security control system 1220 may include magneticcard access, turnstiles, solenoid driven door locks, surveillancecameras, burglar alarms, metal detectors, and the like. User console1225 may be a computer terminal that can be used by the site manager toschedule operations of, control, monitor, optimize, and troubleshoot thedifferent systems of the site. Software from Tridium, Inc. may generatevisual representations of data from different systems for user console1225.

Each of the different controls may control individual devices/apparatus.Master controller 1205 controls windows 1255. Lighting control panel1210 controls lights 1235. BMS 1215 may control HVAC 1230. Securitycontrol system 1220 controls security sensors 1240, door locks 1245, andcameras 1250. Data may be exchanged and/or shared between all of thedifferent devices/apparatus and controllers that are part of sitenetwork 1200.

In some cases, the systems of site network 1100 or site network 1200 mayrun according to daily, monthly, quarterly, or yearly schedules. Forexample, the lighting control system, the window control system, theHVAC, and the security system may operate on a 24 hour scheduleaccounting for when people are at the site during the work day. Atnight, the site may enter an energy savings mode, and during the day,the systems may operate in a manner that minimizes the energyconsumption of the site while providing for occupant comfort. As anotherexample, the systems may shut down or enter an energy savings mode overa holiday period.

The scheduling information may be combined with geographicalinformation. Geographical information may include the latitude andlongitude of a site such as, for example, a building. In the case of abuilding, geographical information also may include information aboutthe direction that each side of the building faces. Using suchinformation, different rooms on different sides of the building may becontrolled in different manners. For example, for east facing rooms ofthe building in the winter, the window controller may instruct thewindows to have no tint in the morning so that the room warms up due tosunlight shining in the room and the lighting control panel may instructthe lights to be dim because of the lighting from the sunlight. The westfacing windows may be controllable by the occupants of the room in themorning because the tint of the windows on the west side may have noimpact on energy savings. However, the modes of operation of the eastfacing windows and the west facing windows may switch in the evening(e.g., when the sun is setting, the west facing windows are not tintedto allow sunlight in for both heat and lighting).

Described below is an example of a site such as, for example, thebuilding 1101 in FIG. 1B, that includes a site network, tintable windowsfor the exterior windows (e.g., windows separating the interior of thebuilding from the exterior of the building), and a number of differentsensors. Light from exterior windows of a building generally has aneffect on the interior lighting in the building about 20 feet or about30 feet from the windows. That is, space in a building that is more thatabout feet or about 30 feet from an exterior window receives littlelight from the exterior window. Such spaces away from exterior windowsin a building are lit by lighting systems of the building.

Further, the temperature within a building may be influenced by exteriorlight and/or the exterior temperature. For example, on a cold day andwith the building being heated by a heating system, rooms closer todoors and/or windows will lose heat faster than the interior regions ofthe building and be cooler compared to the interior regions.

For exterior condition monitoring, the building may include exteriorsensors on the roof of the building. Alternatively, the building mayinclude an exterior sensor associated with each exterior window or anexterior sensor on each side of the building. An exterior sensor on eachside of the building could track the irradiance on a side of thebuilding as the sun changes position throughout the day.

When a window controller is integrated into a site network, outputs fromexterior sensors may be input to a site network and/or SMS. In somecases, these outputs may be provided as input to a local windowcontroller. For example, in some embodiments, output signals from anytwo or more exterior sensors are received. In some embodiments, only oneoutput signal is received, and in some other embodiments, three, four,five, or more outputs are received. These output signals may be receivedover a site network.

In some embodiments, the output signals received by sensor(s) include asignal indicating energy or power consumption by a heating system, acooling system, and/or lighting within the building. For example, theenergy or power consumption of the heating system, the cooling system,and/or the lighting of the building may be monitored to provide thesignal indicating energy or power consumption. Devices may be interfacedwith or attached to the circuits and/or wiring of the building to enablethis monitoring. Alternatively, the power systems in the building may beinstalled such that the power consumed by the heating system, a coolingsystem, and/or lighting for an individual room within the building or agroup of rooms within the building can be monitored.

Tint instructions can be provided to change to tint of the tintablewindow to a determined level of tint. For example, referring to FIG. 1B,this may include master controller 1103 issuing commands to one or moreintermediate network controllers 1105 a and 1105 b, which in turn issuecommands to end controllers 1110 that control each window of thebuilding. Master controller 1103 may issue commands based on commandsreceived from a BMS and/or a SMS. End controllers 1100 may apply voltageand/or current to the window to drive the change in tint pursuant to theinstructions.

In some embodiments, a site including tintable windows may be enrolledin or participate in a demand response program run by the utility orutilities providing power to the site. The program may be a program inwhich the energy consumption of the site is reduced when a peak loadoccurrence is expected. The utility may send out a warning signal priorto an expected peak load occurrence. For example, the warning may besent on the day before, the morning of, or about one hour before theexpected peak load occurrence. A peak load occurrence may be expected tooccur on a hot summer day when cooling systems/air conditioners aredrawing a large amount of power from the utility, for example. Thewarning signal may be received by a BMS of a building, by the SMS, or bywindow controllers configured to control the tintable windows in thebuilding. This warning signal can be an override mechanism thatdisengages the tinting control. The BMS or SMS can then instruct thewindow controller(s) to transition the appropriate electrochromic devicein the tintable windows to a dark tint level to aid in reducing thepower draw of the cooling systems in the building at the time when thepeak load is expected.

In some embodiments, tintable windows (e.g., electrochromic windows) ofwindows of a site may be grouped into zones with tintable windows in azone being instructed in a similar manner. For example, the exteriorwindows of the site (i.e., windows separating the interior from theexterior of a building), may be grouped into zones, with tintablewindows in a zone being instructed in a similar manner. For example,groups of tintable windows on different floors of the building ordifferent sides of a building may be in different zones. In one case, onthe first floor of the building, all of the east facing tintable windowsmay be in zone 1, all of the south facing tintable windows may be inzone 2, all of the west facing tintable windows may be in zone 3, andall of the north facing tintable windows may be in zone 4. In anothercase, all of the tintable windows on the first floor of the building maybe in zone 1, all of the tintable windows on the second floor may be inzone 2, and all of the tintable windows on the third floor may be inzone 3. In yet another case, all of the east facing tintable windows maybe in zone 1, all of the south facing tintable windows may be in zone 2,all of the west facing tintable windows may be in zone 3, and all of thenorth facing tintable windows may be in zone 4. As yet another case,east facing tintable windows on one floor could be divided intodifferent zones. Any number of tintable windows on the same side and/ordifferent sides and/or different floors of the building may be assignedto a zone.

In some embodiments, tintable windows in a zone may be controlled by thesame window controller. In some other embodiments, tintable windows in azone may be controlled by different window controllers, but the windowcontrollers may all receive the same output signals from sensors and usethe same function or lookup table to determine the level of tint for thewindows in a zone.

In some embodiments, tintable windows in a zone may be controlled by awindow controller or controllers that receive an output signal from atransmissivity sensor. In some embodiments, the transmissivity sensormay be mounted proximate the windows in a zone. For example, thetransmissivity sensor may be mounted in or on a frame containing an IGU(e.g., mounted in or on a mullion, the horizontal sash of a frame)included in the zone. In some other embodiments, tintable windows in azone that includes the windows on a single side of the building may becontrolled by a window controller or controllers that receive an outputsignal from a transmissivity sensor.

In some embodiments, a sensor (e.g., photosensor) may provide an outputsignal to a window controller to control the tintable windows of a firstzone (e.g., a master control zone). The window controller may alsocontrol the tintable windows in a second zone (e.g., a slave controlzone) in the same manner as the first zone. In some other embodiments,another window controller may control the tintable windows in the secondzone in the same manner as the first zone.

In some embodiments, a site manager, occupants of rooms in the secondzone, or other person may manually instruct (using a tint or clearcommand or a command from a user console of a BMS, for example) thetintable windows in the second zone (i.e., the slave control zone) toenter a tint level such as a colored state (level) or a clear state. Insome embodiments, when the tint level of the windows in the second zoneis overridden with such a manual command, the tintable windows in thefirst zone (i.e., the master control zone) remain under control of thewindow controller receiving output from the transmissivity sensor. Thesecond zone may remain in a manual command mode for a period of time andthen revert back to be under control of the window controller receivingoutput from the transmissivity sensor. For example, the second zone maystay in a manual mode for one hour after receiving an override command,and then may revert back to be under control of the window controllerreceiving output from the transmissivity sensor.

In some embodiments, a site manager, occupants of rooms in the firstzone, or other person may manually instruct (using a tint command or acommand from a user console of a BMS, for example) the windows in thefirst zone (i.e., the master control zone) to enter a tint level such asa colored state or a clear state. In some embodiments, when the tintlevel of the windows in the first zone is overridden with such a manualcommand, the tintable windows in the second zone (i.e., the slavecontrol zone) remain under control of the window controller receivingoutputs from the exterior sensor. The first zone may remain in a manualcommand mode for a period of time and then revert back to be undercontrol of window controller receiving output from the transmissivitysensor. For example, the first zone may stay in a manual mode for onehour after receiving an override command, and then may revert back to beunder control of the window controller receiving output from thetransmissivity sensor. In some other embodiments, the tintable windowsin the second zone may remain in the tint level that they are in whenthe manual override for the first zone is received. The first zone mayremain in a manual command mode for a period of time and then both thefirst zone and the second zone may revert back to be under control ofthe window controller receiving output from the transmissivity sensor.

Any of the methods described herein of control of a tintable window,regardless of whether the window controller is a standalone windowcontroller or is interfaced with a site network, may be used control thetint of a tintable window.

Wireless or Wired Communication

In some embodiments, window controllers described herein includecomponents for wired or wireless communication between the windowcontroller, sensors, and separate communication nodes. Wireless or wiredcommunications may be accomplished with a communication interface thatinterfaces directly with the window controller. Such interface could benative to the microprocessor or provided via additional circuitryenabling these functions. In addition, other systems of a site networkmay include components for wired or wireless communication betweendifferent system elements.

A separate communication node for wireless communications can be, forexample, another wireless window controller, an end, intermediatenetwork, or master controller, a remote control device, a BMS, or a SMS.Wireless communication may be used in the window controller for at leastone of the following operations: programming and/or operating thetintable window 505 (see FIG. 5 ), collecting data from the tintablewindow 505 from the various sensors and protocols described herein, andusing the tintable window 505 as a relay point for wirelesscommunication. Data collected from tintable windows 505 also may includecount data such as number of times an EC device has been activated,efficiency of the EC device over time, and the like. These wirelesscommunication features are described in more detail below.

In one embodiment, wireless communication is used to operate theassociated tintable windows 505, for example, via an infrared (IR),and/or radio frequency (RF) signal. In certain embodiments, thecontroller will include a wireless protocol chip, such as Bluetooth,EnOcean, WiFi, Zigbee, and the like. Window controllers may also havewireless communication via a network. Input to the window controller canbe manually input by an end user at a wall switch, either directly orvia wireless communication, or the input can be from a BMS of a site ofwhich the tintable window is a component or from a SMS managing system.

In one embodiment, when the window controller is part of a distributednetwork of controllers, wireless communication is used to transfer datato and from each of a plurality of tintable windows via the distributednetwork of controllers, each having wireless communication components.For example, referring again to FIG. 1B, master controller 1103,communicates wirelessly with each of intermediate network controllers1105 a and 1105 b, which in turn communicate wirelessly with endcontrollers 1110, each associated with a tintable window. Mastercontroller 1103 may also communicate wirelessly with a BMS or with aSMS. In one embodiment, at least one level of communication in thewindow controller is performed wirelessly.

In some embodiments, more than one mode of wireless communication isused in the window controller distributed network. For example, a mastercontroller may communicate wirelessly to intermediate controllers viaWiFi or Zigbee, while the intermediate controllers communicate with endcontrollers via Bluetooth, Zigbee, EnOcean, or other protocol. Inanother example, window controllers have redundant wirelesscommunication systems for flexibility in end user choices for wirelesscommunication.

Example of System for Controlling Functions of Tintable Windows

FIG. 1D is a block diagram of components of a system 1400 forcontrolling functions (e.g., transitioning to different tint levels) ofone or more tintable windows at a site (e.g., building 1101 shown inFIG. 1B), according to embodiments. System 1400 may be one of thesystems managed by a SMS through a BMS (e.g., BMS 1100 shown in FIG. 1B)or may be managed directly by a SMS and/or operate independently of aBMS.

System 1400 includes a control system 1402 that can send control signalsto the tintable windows to control its functions. System 1400 alsoincludes a network 1410 in electronic communication with master windowcontroller 1402. Control logic and instructions for controllingfunctions of the tintable window(s), and/or sensor data may becommunicated to the control system 1402 through the network 1410.Network 1410 can be a wired or a wireless network (e.g., a cloudnetwork). In some embodiments, network 1410 may be in communication witha BMS to allow the BMS to send instructions for controlling the tintablewindow(s) through network 1410 to the tintable window(s) in a building.In some cases, the BMS may be in communication with the SMS to receiveinstructions for controlling the tintable window(s) from the SMS. Inother embodiments, network 1410 may be in communication with a SMS toallow the SMS to send instructions for controlling the tintablewindow(s) through network 1410 to the tintable window(s) in a building.In certain embodiments, the control system 1402 and/or the mastercontroller 1403 are designed or configured to communicate with the SMSor component thereof such as a data warehouse.

System 1400 also includes EC devices 400 of the tintable windows (notshown) and wall switches 1490, which are both in electroniccommunication with control system 1402. In this illustrated example,control system 1402 can send control signals to EC device(s) to controlthe tint level of the tintable windows having the EC device(s). Eachwall switch 1490 is also in communication with EC device(s) and controlsystem 1402. An end user (e.g., occupant of a room having the tintablewindow) can use the wall switch 1490 to control the tint level and otherfunctions of the tintable window having the EC device(s).

In FIG. 1D, control system 1402 is depicted as a distributed network ofwindow controllers including a master controller 1403, a plurality ofintermediate network controllers 1405 in communication with the mastercontroller 1403, and multiple pluralities of end or leaf windowcontrollers 1110. Each plurality of end or leaf window controllers 1110is in communication with a single intermediate network controller 1405.Although control system 1402 is illustrated as a distributed network ofwindow controllers, control system 1402 could also be a single windowcontroller controlling the functions of a single tintable window inother embodiments. The components of the system 1400 in FIG. 1D may besimilar in some respects to components described with respect to FIG.1B. For example, master controller 1403 may be similar to mastercontroller 1103 and intermediate network controllers 1405 may be similarto intermediate network controllers 1105. Each of the window controllersin the distributed network of FIG. 1D may include a processor (e.g.,microprocessor) and a computer readable medium in electricalcommunication with the processor.

In FIG. 1D, each leaf or end window controller 1110 is in communicationwith EC device(s) 400 of a single tintable window to control the tintlevel of that tintable window in the building. In the case of an IGU,the leaf or end window controller 1110 may be in communication with ECdevices 400 on multiple lites of the IGU to control the tint level ofthe IGU. In other embodiments, each leaf or end window controller 1110may be in communication with a plurality of tintable windows. The leafor end window controller 1110 may be integrated into the tintable windowor may be separate from the tintable window that it controls. Leaf andend window controllers 1110 in FIG. 1D may be similar to the end or leafcontrollers 1110 in FIG. 1B and/or may also be similar to windowcontroller 450 described with respect to FIG. 5 .

Each wall switch 1490 can be operated by an end user (e.g., occupant ofthe room) to control the tint level and other functions of the tintablewindow in communication with the wall switch 1490. The end user canoperate the wall switch 1490 to communicate control signals to the ECdevices 400 in the associated tintable window. These signals from thewall switch 1490 may override signals from control system 1402 in somecases. In other cases (e.g., high demand cases), control signals fromthe control system 1402 may override the control signals from wallswitch 1490. Each wall switch 1490 is also in communication with theleaf or end window controller 1110 to send information about the controlsignals (e.g. time, date, tint level requested, etc.) sent from wallswitch 1490 back to control system 1402. In some cases, wall switches1490 may be manually operated. In other cases, wall switches 1490 may bewirelessly controlled by the end user using a remote device (e.g., cellphone, tablet, etc.) sending wireless communications with the controlsignals, for example, using infrared (IR), and/or radio frequency (RF)signals. In some cases, wall switches 1490 may include a wirelessprotocol chip, such as Bluetooth, EnOcean, WiFi, Zigbee, and the like.Although wall switches 1490 depicted in FIG. 1D are located on thewall(s), other embodiments of system 1400 may have switches locatedelsewhere in the room.

Wireless communication between, for example, master and/or intermediatewindow controllers and end window controllers offers the advantage ofobviating the installation of hard communication lines. This is alsotrue for wireless communication between window controllers and BMS. Inone aspect, wireless communication in these roles is useful for datatransfer to and from electrochromic windows for operating the window andproviding data to, for example, a BMS for optimizing the environment andenergy savings in a building. Window location data as well as feedbackfrom sensors are synergized for such optimization. For example, granularlevel (window-by-window) microclimate information is fed to a BMS inorder to optimize the building's various environments.

FIG. 1E shows a block diagram of an example network system, 300,operable to control a plurality of IGUs 302 in accordance with someimplementations. One primary function of the network system 300 iscontrolling the optical states of the electrochromic devices (ECDs) orother optically-switchable devices within the IGUs 302. In someimplementations, one or more of the windows 302 can be multi-zonedwindows, for example, where each window includes two or moreindependently controllable ECDs or zones. In various implementations,the network system 300 is operable to control the electricalcharacteristics of the power signals provided to the IGUs 302. Forexample, the network system 300 can generate and communicate tintinginstructions (also referred to herein as “tint commands”) to controlvoltages applied to the ECDs within the IGUs 302.

In some implementations, another function of the network system 300 isto acquire status information from the IGUs 302 (“information” is usedinterchangeably with “data”). For example, the status information for agiven IGU can include an identification of, or information about, acurrent tint state of the ECD(s) within the IGU. The network system 300also can be operable to acquire data from various sensors, such astemperature sensors, photosensors (also referred to herein as lightsensors), humidity sensors, air flow sensors, or occupancy sensors,whether integrated on or within the IGUs 302 or located at various otherpositions in, on or around the building.

The network system 300 can include any suitable number of distributedcontrollers having various capabilities or functions. In someimplementations, the functions and arrangements of the variouscontrollers are defined hierarchically. For example, the network system300 includes a plurality of distributed window controllers (WCs) 304, aplurality of network controllers (NCs) 306, and a master controller (MC)308. In some implementations, the MC 308 can communicate with andcontrol tens or hundreds of NCs 306. In various implementations, the MC308 issues high level instructions to the NCs 306 over one or more wiredor wireless links 316 (hereinafter collectively referred to as “link316”). The instructions can include, for example, tint commands forcausing transitions in the optical states of the IGUs 302 controlled bythe respective NCs 306. Each NC 306 can, in turn, communicate with andcontrol a number of WCs 304 over one or more wired or wireless links 314(hereinafter collectively referred to as “link 314”). For example, eachNC 306 can control tens or hundreds of the WCs 304. Each WC 304 can, inturn, communicate with, drive or otherwise control one or morerespective IGUs 302 over one or more wired or wireless links 312(hereinafter collectively referred to as “link 312”).

The MC 308 can issue communications including tint commands, statusrequest commands, data (for example, sensor data) request commands orother instructions. In some implementations, the MC 308 can issue suchcommunications periodically, at certain predefined times of day (whichmay change based on the day of week or year), or based on the detectionof particular events, conditions or combinations of events or conditions(for example, as determined by acquired sensor data or based on thereceipt of a request initiated by a user or by an application or acombination of such sensor data and such a request). In someimplementations, when the MC 308 determines to cause a tint state changein a set of one or more IGUs 302, the MC 308 generates or selects a tintvalue corresponding to the desired tint state. In some implementations,the set of IGUs 302 is associated with a first protocol identifier (ID)(for example, a BACnet ID). The MC 308 then generates and transmits acommunication—referred to herein as a “primary tint command”—includingthe tint value and the first protocol ID over the link 316 via a firstcommunication protocol (for example, a BACnet compatible protocol). Insome implementations, the MC 308 addresses the primary tint command tothe particular NC 306 that controls the particular one or more WCs 304that, in turn, control the set of IGUs 302 to be transitioned. The NC306 receives the primary tint command including the tint value and thefirst protocol ID and maps the first protocol ID to one or more secondprotocol IDs. In some implementations, each of the second protocol IDsidentifies a corresponding one of the WCs 304. The NC 306 subsequentlytransmits a secondary tint command including the tint value to each ofthe identified WCs 304 over the link 314 via a second communicationprotocol. In some implementations, each of the WCs 304 that receives thesecondary tint command then selects a voltage or current profile from aninternal memory based on the tint value to drive its respectivelyconnected IGUs 302 to a tint state consistent with the tint value. Eachof the WCs 304 then generates and provides voltage or current signalsover the link 312 to its respectively connected IGUs 302 to apply thevoltage or current profile.

In some implementations, the various IGUs 302 can be advantageouslygrouped into zones of EC windows, each of which zones includes a subsetof the IGUs 302. In some implementations, each zone of IGUs 302 iscontrolled by one or more respective NCs 306 and one or more respectiveWCs 304 controlled by these NCs 306. In some more specificimplementations, each zone can be controlled by a single NC 306 and twoor more WCs 304 controlled by the single NC 306. Said another way, azone can represent a logical grouping of the IGUs 302. For example, eachzone may correspond to a set of IGUs 302 in a specific location or areaof the building that are driven together based on their location. As amore specific example, consider a building having four faces or sides: aNorth face, a South face, an East Face and a West Face. Consider alsothat the building has ten floors. In such a didactic example, each zonecan correspond to the set of electrochromic windows 100 on a particularfloor and on a particular one of the four faces. Additionally oralternatively, each zone may correspond to a set of IGUs 302 that shareone or more physical characteristics (for example, device parameterssuch as size or age). In some other implementations, a zone of IGUs 302can be grouped based on one or more non-physical characteristics suchas, for example, a security designation or a business hierarchy (forexample, IGUs 302 bounding managers' offices can be grouped in one ormore zones while IGUs 302 bounding non-managers' offices can be groupedin one or more different zones).

In some such implementations, each NC 306 can address all of the IGUs302 in each of one or more respective zones. For example, the MC 308 canissue a primary tint command to the NC 306 that controls a target zone.The primary tint command can include an abstract identification of thetarget zone (hereinafter also referred to as a “zone ID”). In some suchimplementations, the zone ID can be a first protocol ID such as thatjust described in the example above. In such cases, the NC 306 receivesthe primary tint command including the tint value and the zone ID andmaps the zone ID to the second protocol IDs associated with the WCs 304within the zone. In some other implementations, the zone ID can be ahigher level abstraction than the first protocol IDs. In such cases, theNC 306 can first map the zone ID to one or more first protocol IDs, andsubsequently map the first protocol IDs to the second protocol IDs.

Further details related to the various types of controllers aredescribed in Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 62/248,181, filedOct. 29, 2015, which is herein incorporated by reference in itsentirety.

Example Switching Algorithm

To speed along optical transitions, the applied voltage is initiallyprovided at a magnitude greater than that required to hold the device ata particular optical state in equilibrium. This approach is illustratedin FIGS. 2 and 3 . FIG. 2 is a graph depicting voltage and currentprofiles associated with driving an electrochromic device from bleachedto colored and from colored to bleached. FIG. 3 is a graph depictingcertain voltage and current profiles associated with driving anelectrochromic device from bleached to colored.

FIG. 2 shows a complete current profile and voltage profile for anelectrochromic device employing a simple voltage control algorithm tocause an optical state transition cycle (coloration followed bybleaching) of an electrochromic device. In the graph, total currentdensity (I) is represented as a function of time. As mentioned, thetotal current density is a combination of the ionic current densityassociated with an electrochromic transition and electronic leakagecurrent between the electrochemically active electrodes. Many differenttypes electrochomic device will have the depicted current profile. Inone example, a cathodic electrochromic material such as tungsten oxideis used in conjunction with an anodic electrochromic material such asnickel tungsten oxide in counter electrode. In such devices, negativecurrents indicate coloration of the device. In one example, lithium ionsflow from a nickel tungsten oxide anodically coloring electrochromicelectrode into a tungsten oxide cathodically coloring electrochromicelectrode. Correspondingly, electrons flow into the tungsten oxideelectrode to compensate for the positively charged incoming lithiumions. Therefore, the voltage and current are shown to have a negativevalue.

The depicted profile results from ramping up the voltage to a set leveland then holding the voltage to maintain the optical state. The currentpeaks 201 are associated with changes in optical state, i.e., colorationand bleaching. Specifically, the current peaks represent delivery of theionic charge needed to color or bleach the device. Mathematically, theshaded area under the peak represents the total charge required to coloror bleach the device. The portions of the curve after the initialcurrent spikes (portions 203) represent electronic leakage current whilethe device is in the new optical state.

In the figure, a voltage profile 205 is superimposed on the currentcurve. The voltage profile follows the sequence: negative ramp (207),negative hold (209), positive ramp (211), and positive hold (213). Notethat the voltage remains constant after reaching its maximum magnitudeand during the length of time that the device remains in its definedoptical state. Voltage ramp 207 drives the device to its new the coloredstate and voltage hold 209 maintains the device in the colored stateuntil voltage ramp 211 in the opposite direction drives the transitionfrom colored to bleached states. In some switching algorithms, a currentcap is imposed. That is, the current is not permitted to exceed adefined level in order to prevent damaging the device (e.g. driving ionmovement through the material layers too quickly can physically damagethe material layers). The coloration speed is a function of not only theapplied voltage, but also the temperature and the voltage ramping rate.

FIG. 3 illustrates a voltage control profile in accordance with certainembodiments. In the depicted embodiment, a voltage control profile isemployed to drive the transition from a bleached state to a coloredstate (or to an intermediate state). To drive an electrochromic devicein the reverse direction, from a colored state to a bleached state (orfrom a more colored to less colored state), a similar but invertedprofile is used. In some embodiments, the voltage control profile forgoing from colored to bleached is a mirror image of the one depicted inFIG. 3 .

The voltage values depicted in FIG. 3 represent the applied voltage(Vapp) values. The applied voltage profile is shown by the dashed line.For contrast, the current density in the device is shown by the solidline. In the depicted profile, V_(app) includes four components: a rampto drive component 303, which initiates the transition, a V_(drive)component 313, which continues to drive the transition, a ramp to holdcomponent 315, and a V_(hold) component 317. The ramp components areimplemented as variations in V_(app) and the V_(drive) and V_(hold)components provide constant or substantially constant V_(app)magnitudes.

The ramp to drive component is characterized by a ramp rate (increasingmagnitude) and a magnitude of V_(drive). When the magnitude of theapplied voltage reaches V_(drive), the ramp to drive component iscompleted. The V_(drive) component is characterized by the value ofV_(drive) as well as the duration of V_(drive). The magnitude ofV_(drive) may be chosen to maintain V_(eff) with a safe but effectiverange over the entire face of the electrochromic device as describedabove.

The ramp to hold component is characterized by a voltage ramp rate(decreasing magnitude) and the value of V_(hold) (or optionally thedifference between V_(drive) and V_(hold)). V_(app) drops according tothe ramp rate until the value of V_(hold) is reached. The V_(hold)component is characterized by the magnitude of V_(hold) and the durationof V_(hold). Actually, the duration of V_(hold) is typically governed bythe length of time that the device is held in the colored state (orconversely in the bleached state). Unlike the ramp to drive, V_(drive),and ramp to hold components, the V_(hold) component has an arbitrarylength, which is independent of the physics of the optical transition ofthe device.

Each type of electrochromic device will have its own characteristiccomponents of the voltage profile for driving the optical transition.For example, a relatively large device and/or one with a more resistiveconductive layer will require a higher value of V_(drive) and possibly ahigher ramp rate in the ramp to drive component. Larger devices may alsorequire higher values of V_(hold). U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/449,251, filed Apr. 17, 2012, and incorporated herein by reference,discloses controllers and associated algorithms for driving opticaltransitions over a wide range of conditions. As explained therein, eachof the components of an applied voltage profile (ramp to drive,V_(drive), ramp to hold, and V_(hold), herein) may be independentlycontrolled to address real-time conditions such as current temperature,current level of transmissivity, etc. In some embodiments, the values ofeach component of the applied voltage profile is set for a particularelectrochromic device (having its own bus bar separation, resistivity,etc.) and does vary based on current conditions. In other words, in suchembodiments, the voltage profile does not take into account feedbacksuch as temperature, current density, and the like.

As indicated, all voltage values shown in the voltage transition profileof FIG. 3 correspond to the Vapp values described above. They do notcorrespond to the Veff values described above. In other words, thevoltage values depicted in FIG. 3 are representative of the voltagedifference between the bus bars of opposite polarity on theelectrochromic device.

In certain embodiments, the ramp to drive component of the voltageprofile is chosen to safely but rapidly induce ionic current to flowbetween the electrochromic and counter electrodes. As shown in FIG. 3 ,the current in the device follows the profile of the ramp to drivevoltage component until the ramp to drive portion of the profile endsand the V_(drive) portion begins. See current component 301 in FIG. 3 .Safe levels of current and voltage can be determined empirically orbased on other feedback. U.S. Pat. No. 8,254,013, filed Mar. 16, 2011,issued Aug. 28, 2012 and incorporated herein by reference, presentsexamples of algorithms for maintaining safe current levels duringelectrochromic device transitions.

In certain embodiments, the value of V_(drive) is chosen based on theconsiderations described above. Particularly, it is chosen so that thevalue of V_(eff) over the entire surface of the electrochromic deviceremains within a range that effectively and safely transitions largeelectrochromic devices. The duration of V_(drive) can be chosen based onvarious considerations. One of these ensures that the drive potential isheld for a period sufficient to cause the substantial coloration of thedevice. For this purpose, the duration of V_(drive) may be determinedempirically, by monitoring the optical density of the device as afunction of the length of time that Vdrive remains in place. In someembodiments, the duration of V_(drive) is set to a specified timeperiod. In another embodiment, the duration of V_(drive) is set tocorrespond to a desired amount of ionic charge being passed. As shown,the current ramps down during V_(drive). See current segment 307.

Another consideration is the reduction in current density in the deviceas the ionic current decays as a consequence of the available lithiumions completing their journey from the anodic coloring electrode to thecathodic coloring electrode (or counter electrode) during the opticaltransition. When the transition is complete, the only current flowingacross device is leakage current through the ion conducting layer. As aconsequence, the ohmic drop in potential across the face of the devicedecreases and the local values of V_(eff) increase. These increasedvalues of V_(eff) can damage or degrade the device if the appliedvoltage is not reduced. Thus, another consideration in determining theduration of V_(drive) is the goal of reducing the level of V_(eff)associated with leakage current. By dropping the applied voltage fromVdrive to Vhold, not only is V_(eff) reduced on the face of the devicebut leakage current decreases as well. As shown in FIG. 3 , the devicecurrent transitions in a segment 305 during the ramp to hold component.The current settles to a stable leakage current 309 during V_(hold).

Methods for controlling optical transitions on optically switchabledevices are further described in the following patent applications, eachof which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety: PCTApplication No. PCT/US14/43514, filed Jun. 20, 2014; U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/239,776, filed Oct. 9, 2015; and U.S. applicationSer. No. 13/449,248, filed Apr. 17, 2012.

Any of the parameters described in relation to FIGS. 2 and 3 (including,but not limited to, the ramp to drive rate, the drive voltage, the rampto hold rate, and the hold voltage) can be updated by a SMS. Suchupdates may be made for any number of reasons, as described above.Typically, these parameters are set for a particular opticallyswitchable device based on the size of the glass (or other substrate),the distance between bus bars on the device, the shape of the glass andlayout of the bus bars, the suite of desired tint states (e.g., thedesired level of transmissivity at each available tint state), and thegeneration/technology of glass that is used. These parameters may alsovary based on e.g., the production lot, glass temperature, and otherfactors. If and when there is a desire to update these parameters, theSMS can easily do so.

FIG. 4 depicts a block diagram of some components of a window controller450 and other components of a window controller system of disclosedembodiments. FIG. 4 is a simplified block diagram of a windowcontroller, and more detail regarding window controllers can be found inU.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 13/449,248 and 13/449,251, both namingStephen Brown as inventor, both titled “CONTROLLER FOROPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE WINDOWS,” and both filed on Apr. 17, 2012, and inU.S. patent Ser. No. 13/449,235, titled “CONTROLLING TRANSITIONS INOPTICALLY SWITCHABLE DEVICES,” naming Stephen Brown et al. as inventorsand filed on Apr. 17, 2012, all of which are hereby incorporated byreference in their entireties. Window controllers are further discussedin U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/248,181, filed Oct. 29,2015, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

In FIG. 4 , the illustrated components of the window controller 450include a window controller 450 having a microprocessor 410 or otherprocessor, a pulse width modulator (PWM) 415, a signal conditioningmodule 405, and a computer readable medium 420 (e.g., memory) having aconfiguration file 422. Window controller 450 is in electroniccommunication with one or more electrochromic devices 400 in anelectrochromic window through network 425 (wired or wireless) to sendinstructions to the one or more electrochromic devices 400. In someembodiments, the window controller 450 may be a local window controllerin communication through a network (wired or wireless) to a controlsystem including, e.g., a network controller and/or master controller.

In disclosed embodiments, a site may be a building having at least oneroom having an electrochromic window between the exterior and interiorof a building. One or more sensors may be located to the exterior of thebuilding and/or inside the room. In embodiments, the output from the oneor more sensors may be input to the signal conditioning module 405 ofthe window controller 450. In some cases, the output from the one ormore sensors may be input to a BMS and/or to a SMS. Although the sensorsof depicted embodiments are shown as located on the outside verticalwall of the building, this is for the sake of simplicity, and thesensors may be in other locations, such as inside the room or on othersurfaces to the exterior, as well. In some cases, two or more sensorsmay be used to measure the same input, which can provide redundancy incase one sensor fails or has an otherwise erroneous reading.

Room Sensors and Window Controller

FIG. 5 depicts a schematic diagram of a room 500 having a tintablewindow 505 with at least one electrochromic device. The tintable window505 is located between the exterior and the interior of a building,which includes the room 500. The room 500 also includes a windowcontroller 450 connected to and configured to control the tint level ofthe tintable window 505. An exterior sensor 510 is located on a verticalsurface in the exterior of the building. In other embodiments, aninterior sensor may also be used to measure the ambient light in room500. In yet other embodiments, an occupant sensor may also be used todetermine when an occupant is in the room 500.

Exterior sensor 510 is a device, such as a photosensor, that is able todetect radiant light incident upon the device flowing from a lightsource such as the sun or from light reflected to the sensor from asurface, particles in the atmosphere, clouds, etc. The exterior sensor510 may generate a signal in the form of electrical current that resultsfrom the photoelectric effect and the signal may be a function of thelight incident on the sensor 510. In some cases, the device may detectradiant light in terms of irradiance in units of watts/m² or othersimilar units. In other cases, the device may detect light in thevisible range of wavelengths in units of foot candles or similar units.In many cases, there is a linear relationship between these values ofirradiance and visible light.

Irradiance values from sunlight can be predicted based on the time ofday and time of year as the angle at which sunlight strikes the earthchanges. Exterior sensor 510 can detect radiant light in real-time,which accounts for reflected and obstructed light due to buildings,changes in weather (e.g., clouds), etc. For example, on cloudy days,sunlight would be blocked by the clouds and the radiant light detectedby an exterior sensor 510 would be lower than on cloudless days.

In some embodiments, there may be one or more exterior sensors 510associated with a single tintable window 505. Output from the one ormore exterior sensors 510 could be compared to one another to determine,for example, if one of exterior sensors 510 is shaded by an object, suchas by a bird that landed on exterior sensor 510. In some cases, it maybe desirable to use relatively few sensors in a building because somesensors can be unreliable and/or expensive. In certain implementations,a single sensor or a few sensors may be employed to determine thecurrent level of radiant light from the sun impinging on the building orperhaps one side of the building. A cloud may pass in front of the sunor a construction vehicle may park in front of the setting sun. Thesewill result in deviations from the amount of radiant light from the suncalculated to normally impinge on the building.

Exterior sensor 510 may be a type of photosensor. For example, exteriorsensor 510 may be a charge coupled device (CCD), photodiode,photoresistor, or photovoltaic cell. One of ordinary skill in the artwould appreciate that future developments in photosensor and othersensor technology would also work, as they measure light intensity andprovide an electrical output representative of the light level.

In some embodiments, output from exterior sensor 510 may be input to aBMS and/or SMS. The input may be in the form of a voltage signal. TheBMS or SMS may process the input and pass an output signal with tintinginstructions to the window controller 450 directly or through a controlsystem 1102 (shown in FIG. 1B). The tint level of the tintable window505 may be determined based on various configuration information,override values. Window controller 450 then instructs the PWM 415, toapply a voltage and/or current to tintable window 505 to transition tothe desired tint level.

In disclosed embodiments, window controller 450 can instruct the PWM415, to apply a voltage and/or current to tintable window 505 totransition it to any one of four or more different tint levels. Indisclosed embodiments, tintable window 505 can be transitioned to atleast eight different tint levels described as: 0 (lightest), 5, 10, 15,20, 25, 30, and 35 (darkest). The tint levels may linearly correspond tovisual transmittance values and solar gain heat coefficient (SGHC)values of light transmitted through the tintable window 505. Forexample, using the above eight tint levels, the lightest tint level of 0may correspond to an SGHC value of 0.80, the tint level of 5 maycorrespond to an SGHC value of 0.70, the tint level of 10 may correspondto an SGHC value of 0.60, the tint level of 15 may correspond to an SGHCvalue of 0.50, the tint level of 20 may correspond to an SGHC value of0.40, the tint level of 25 may correspond to an SGHC value of 0.30, thetint level of 30 may correspond to an SGHC value of 0.20, and the tintlevel of 35 (darkest) may correspond to an SGHC value of 0.10.

The BMS or SMS in communication with the window controller 450 or acontrol system in communication with the window controller 450 mayemploy any control logic to determine a desired tint level based onsignals from the exterior sensor 510 and/or other input. The windowcontroller 415 can instruct the PWM 415 to apply a voltage and/orcurrent to electrochromic window 505 to transition it to the desiredtint level.

As mentioned above, the SMS may be used to generate a fingerprint forany sensors installed in connection with the network of opticallyswitchable devices. The fingerprint can include all relevant informationrelated to the sensors including, but not limited to, ID numbers for thesensors, a description of the sensors, any I/V data related to thesensors, any default settings or calibration data for the sensors,location/layout information related to the sensors, etc. An initialfingerprint may be evaluated when a sensor or network is initiallyinstalled, in order to get a baseline reading against which a futurefingerprint can be compared. Comparison of the relevant informationwithin fingerprints taken at different times can be used to determine ifand when a sensor is functioning at less-than-optimal performance. Forinstance, if an initial fingerprint indicates that a particularphotosensor should indicate a particular reading at a given time ofday/year for a given weather condition, but a later fingerprintindicates that the photosensor reading is much lower than expected, itmay indicate that the photosensor is dirty or otherwise blocked orbroken. In response to a fingerprint indicating such a change, the SMSmay update some portion of the control system to compensate for thelower-than-expected photosensor readings. The update may relate directlyto the photosensor (e.g., updating calibration data for the photosensorso future readings are more accurate), or it may relate to how thephotosensor (or other sensor) data is used (e.g., by applying an offsetto the photosensor readings before such readings are used in a controlalgorithm). Many options are available. Similar fingerprint comparisonsand related updates may be made in connection with other types ofsensors including, e.g., thermal sensors, occupancy sensors, etc.

Control Logic for Controlling Windows in a Building

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing exemplary control logic for a method ofcontrolling one or more tintable windows at a site, according toembodiments. The control logic uses one or more of the Modules A, B, andC to calculate tint levels for the tintable window(s) and sendsinstructions to transition the tintable window(s). The calculations inthe control logic are run 1 to n times at intervals timed by the timerat step 610. For example, the tint level can be recalculated 1 to ntimes by one or more of the Modules A, B, and C and calculated forinstances in time t_(i)=t₁, t₂ . . . t_(n). n is the number ofrecalculations performed and n can be at least 1. The logic calculationscan be done at constant time intervals in some cases. In one cases, thelogic calculations may be done every 2 to 5 minutes. However, tinttransition for large pieces of electrochromic glass can take up to 30minutes or more. For these large windows, calculations may be done on aless frequent basis such as every 30 minutes. Although Modules A, B, andC are used in the illustrated embodiment, one or more other logicmodules can be used in other embodiments.

At step 620, logic Modules A, B, and C perform calculations to determinea tint level for each electrochromic window 505 at a single instant intime t_(i). These calculations can be performed by the window controller450, or by a SMS. In certain embodiments, the control logic predictivelycalculates how the window should transition in advance of the actualtransition. In these cases, the calculations in Modules A, B, and C canbe based on a future time around or after transition is complete. Inthese cases, the future time used in the calculations may be a time inthe future that is sufficient to allow the transition to be completedafter receiving the tint instructions. In these cases, the controllercan send tint instructions in the present time in advance of the actualtransition. By the completion of the transition, the window will havetransitioned to a tint level that is desired for that time.

At step 630, the control logic allows for certain types of overridesthat disengage the algorithm at Modules A, B, and C and define overridetint levels at step 640 based on some other consideration. One type ofoverride is a manual override. This is an override implemented by an enduser who is occupying a room and determines that a particular tint level(override value) is desirable. There may be situations where the user'smanual override is itself overridden. An example of an override is ahigh demand (or peak load) override, which is associated with arequirement of a utility that energy consumption in the building bereduced. For example, on particularly hot days in large metropolitanareas, it may be necessary to reduce energy consumption throughout themunicipality in order to not overly tax the municipality's energygeneration and delivery systems. In such cases, the building mayoverride the tint level from the control logic to ensure that allwindows have a particularly high level of tinting. Another example of anoverride may be if there is no occupant in the room, for example, over aweekend in a commercial office building. In these cases, the buildingmay disengage one or more Modules that relate to occupant comfort. Inanother example, an override may be that all the windows may have a highlevel of tinting in cold weather or all the windows may have a low levelof tinting in warm weather.

At step 650, instructions with the tint levels are transmitted over asite network to window controller(s) in communication withelectrochromic device(s) in one or more tintable windows 505 in thebuilding. In certain embodiments, the transmission of tint levels to allwindow controllers of a building may be implemented with efficiency inmind. For example, if the recalculation of tint level suggests that nochange in tint from the current tint level is required, then there is notransmission of instructions with an updated tint level. As anotherexample, the building may be divided into zones based on window size.The control logic may calculate a single tint level for each zone. Thecontrol logic may recalculate tint levels for zones with smaller windowsmore frequently than for zones with larger windows.

In some embodiments, the logic in FIG. 6 for implementing the controlmethods for multiple tintable windows 505 in an entire site can be on asingle device, for example, a single master controller, othercontroller, or control panel. This device can perform the calculationsfor each and every window in the site and also provide an interface fortransmitting tint levels to one or more electrochromic devices inindividual tintable windows 505.

Also, there may be certain adaptive components of the control logic ofembodiments. For example, the control logic may determine how an enduser (e.g., occupant) tries to override the algorithm at particulartimes of day and makes use of this information in a more predictivemanner to determine desired tint levels. In one case, the end user maybe using a wall switch to override the tint level provided by thepredictive logic at a certain time each day to an override value. Thecontrol logic may receive information about these instances and changethe control logic to change the tint level to the override value at thattime of day.

User Interface

The portion of the control logic employed by window controller may alsoinclude a user interface, in certain cases, in electronic communicationwith a master scheduler. An example of a user interface 1405 is shown inFIG. 7 . In this illustrated example, the user interface 1405 is in theform of a table for entering schedule information used to generate orchange a schedule employed by a master scheduler. For example, the usercan enter the time period into the table by entering start and stoptimes. The user can also select a sensor used by a program. The user canalso enter Site data and Zone/Group Data. The user can also select anoccupancy lookup table to be used by selecting “Sun Penetration Lookup.”

User interface 1504 is in electronic communication with a processor(e.g., microprocessor) and/or in electronic communication with acomputer readable medium (CRM). The processor is in communication withthe CRM. The processor is a component of the window controller 1110. TheCRM may be a component of the window controller 1110 or may be acomponent of the BMS or SMS. The logic in the master scheduler and othercomponents of the control logic may be stored on the CRM of the windowcontroller 1110, the BMS, or the SMS

User interface 1504 may include an input device such as, for example, akeypad, touchpad, keyboard, etc. User interface 1504 may also include adisplay to output information about the schedule and provide selectableoptions for setting up the schedule.

A user may input their schedule information to prepare a schedule(generate a new schedule or modify an existing schedule) using the userinterface 1504.

A user may enter their site data and zone/group data using userinterface 1504. Site data 1506 includes the latitude, longitude, and GMTOffset for the location of the site. Zone/group data includes theposition, dimension (e.g., window width, window height, sill width,etc.), orientation (e.g., window tilt), external shading (e.g., overhangdepth, overhang location above window, left/right fin to side dimension,left/right fin depth, etc.), datum glass SHGC, and occupancy lookuptable for the one or more tintable windows in each zone of the site. Incertain cases, site data and/or zone/group data is static information(i.e. information that is not changed by components of the predictivecontrol logic). In other embodiments, this data may be generated on thefly. Site data and zone/group data may be stored on the CRM of thewindow controller 1110 or on other memory.

When preparing (or modifying) the schedule, the user selects the controlprogram that a master scheduler will run at different time periods ineach of the zones of a site. In some cases, the user may be able toselect from multiple control programs. In one such case, the user mayprepare a schedule by selecting a control program from a list of allcontrol programs (e.g., menu) displayed on user interface 1405. In othercases, the user may have limited options available to them from a listof all control programs. For example, the user may have only paid forthe use of two control programs. In this example, the user would only beable to select one of the two control programs paid for by the user.

Examples—A Site Monitoring System

FIGS. 8A and 8B show examples of dashboards for a SMS. In FIG. 8A, thedepicted view includes a row for each of multiple sites monitored by thesystem, with each row including a site name, its current status, and amost recent update time. The status row indicates whether or not allmonitored devices and controllers in the site appear to be functioningproperly. A green light may be used to indicate no problems, a red lightmay be used to indicate that a problem exists, and a yellow light may beused to indicate that a device or controller is trending toward aproblem. One field of the view provides a link to details about thesite. Thus, if the dashboard shows that there may be a problem at thesite, the user can obtain pull up event logs, sensor output, windowelectrical responses, etc. for the site. This allows the user to drilldown quickly to the precise issue while still having a high-levelpicture of any sites that have issues. In FIG. 8B, the dashboard isshowing information relevant to a particular site, and many options areavailable to view the information in different ways. Further, thedashboard includes options for running fingerprints (in this case, ashort fingerprint and a longer final fingerprint, each of which may beinclude a particular set of information relevant to various componentsat the site).

FIG. 9 presents an example of one type of site information that may beobtained by a SMS, and may be included in a fingerprint for aphotosensor. The graph presents the output signal from a photosensorover time. This information is presented with the tint state of a windowthat is controlled using information from the sensor. As illustrated,the window tint state reasonably corresponds with the sensor output.

FIG. 10 presents another example of site information that may beobtained by a monitoring system. In this case, a window's response isshown in relation to commands issued by a controller for the window.This type of information may be included in a fingerprint for a windowcontroller and/or an associated optically switchable device, forexample.

FIG. 11 shows yet another example of site information that can bemonitored and stored. This example shows state transitions of windows(using current, voltage, and controller commands) controlled by threedifferent network controllers in a site. If the transitions of one ofthe windows are inconsistent with expected behavior, it may indicate aproblem with the associated network controller. The type of informationshown in FIG. 11 (e.g., voltage, current, and window or windowcontroller state over time) may be included in a fingerprint for one ormore components in the system, e.g., an optically switchable deviceand/or its associated window controller.

FIG. 12 illustrates the case when multiple tinting operations arerequired to switch a device from one optical state to another. Eachunsuccessful attempt to switch a device (whether successful or not)impacts the lifetime of device. The lower trace represents the voltageto the window and the middle trace represents the current to the window.In a properly executed transition according to one embodiment, theapplied voltage will settle to a hold voltage of about −1200 mV.Clearly, this is not the case with the monitored window underconsideration, a situation that may be flagged by the SMS. This flaggingmay occur in response to a comparison between fingerprints taken atdifferent times. The fingerprint may relate directly to the window underconsideration, or it may relate to the broader network of windows,including the window under consideration and any other components beingconsidered. In certain embodiments, the system includes anautodiagnostic function that notes attempts to double tint and doubleclear, situations that may result in early failure. In some cases, thesystem may initiate a fingerprint of one or more components in responseto an indication that a double tint or double clear has occurred. Thisfingerprint can then be compared to an earlier fingerprint to determineif the relevant component is operating as expected and to determine ifany updates, maintenance, or other action is needed.

FIG. 13 presents an example of monitored data that may be used todiagnose a potential problem with an electrical connector to a window orcontroller, possibly through a window frame or IGU. As mentioned, a“pigtail” is sometimes used to connect wiring from a power source to thewindow. In some cases, the connecter connects directly to a controller.The information contained in FIG. 13 shows that a constant command wasissued by a high level controller (e.g., a master controller). See theflat line, third from the top. However the window controller's appliedvoltage and current (lower and upper traces) show rapid and significantchanges, which may be diagnosed as a problem with the connection. Inresponse, personnel can be instructed to check the connection andreplace it if necessary.

FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate monitored information relating solar radiation(as detected by photo detector on the site exterior) to window tintingand heat load. FIG. 14A illustrates monitored data for a properlyfunctioning controller and window, while FIG. 14C illustrates data foran improperly functioning controller and/or window. In FIG. 14A, thedarker curve represents irradiance (W/m²) over time as detected by thephoto detector, while the lighter more linear plot represents thetinting state of a window facing the same direction as the photodetector. As expected for a properly functioning tinting algorithm, thewindow tints when the solar irradiance increases. By contrast, thetinting shown in FIG. 14C does not follow an expected path; it drops toa high transmissivity state during maximum solar exposure. Thissituation may be automatically detected and flagged by the SMS. Thesystem may include further logic for determining whether this otherwiseproblematic situation is actually acceptable due to, e.g., a commonoverride for the subject window or controller at the site. If suchoverride is identified, the monitoring site may conclude that no problemexists and/or that it should change the tinting algorithm to capture theoverride.

FIG. 14B illustrates the radiative heat load through a window (or groupof windows) at the site as a function of time. The upper curverepresents the radiative heat flux (W/m²) that the building wouldreceive if no tinting was applied. The lower dashed curve represents theactual radiative heat load at the site when the window(s) in question istinted according to the properly functioning algorithm as depicted inFIG. 14A. The flat middle dashed line represents a designed maximumradiative heat load that may be associated with a standard window type(e.g., static tinted glass or low E glass). As shown in FIG. 14B, theactual radiative heat load is well below both the no-tint heat load andthe designed maximum heat load. In this situation, the SMS will not flaga problem. It may, however, calculate and optionally save or present thequantity of energy saved using the switchably tinting windows. Energycan be calculated from the area under the curves. The difference betweenthe area under the upper solid curve (no tinting) and the lower dashedcurve (controlled tinting) corresponds to the energy saved usingcontrolled tinting in the site under consideration. Similarly, thedifference between the area under the middle dashed line (design maximumheat load) and the lower dashed curve (controlled tinting) correspondsto the energy saved in comparison to a standard static approach tomanaging radiant heat flux.

FIG. 14D illustrates the heat load as in FIG. 14B but for thepotentially problematic tinting reflected in FIG. 14C. In this case, theheat load temporarily exceeds the design maximum heat load, but stayswell below the heat load that would result from no tinting. Over time,this window/controller still saves energy in comparison to the designmaximum heat load.

FIG. 15 illustrates monitored data for multiple windows having differentswitching characteristics and possibly having different sizes. Eachtrace in the figure represents the switching voltage over time for adifferent window. As shown, different windows exhibit differentswitching times; the lowest V trace is for a window having the longestswitching time. In the depicted example, the different windows are partof the same bank or zone and consequently should transition at the sameor similar rates. When the monitoring system receives data as shown inFIG. 15 , for example in one or more fingerprints for various componentson the system, it can automatically determine that the switching timesvary widely and possibly well out of specification. This may trigger anadjustment in the switching algorithm or associated parameters for someor all of the windows; the algorithm/parameters may be changed to slowthe transition rate of fast switching windows and/or increase the rateof slow switching windows.

FIG. 16 provides monitor information showing that the zone underconsideration has a potential problem or error because one of thecontrollers is out of sync with rest of the controllers in the zone.With such information, the monitoring system or personnel accessing thesystem can further investigate the problem to isolate the controller,its connections, a window it controls, etc.

FIG. 17 provides monitor information for four photosensors, each facinga different direction, on a site. The East sensor has stopped working asshown by its output value dropping to near zero and then not changing atall. Because the other sensors are still reading and the time is earlyin the afternoon, the system can eliminate the possibility that no lightis hitting the site exterior, which could also lead to the very lowreading. The monitoring system may conclude that the East photosensorhas failed. This information may be provided in a fingerprint for one ormore components (e.g., the four photosensors) that is used by the SMS todiagnose the problem.

FIGS. 18A-18I present an example of field degradation and detectionusing features 1.a, 1.b and 1.f from the “Data Monitored” section:changes in peak current, changes in hold (leakage) current, andcomparison with other window controllers on the same facade withidentical loads. In this example, window controllers WC1-WC11 havesimilar loads (two insulated glass units/controller) and they controlwindows on same facade. Controller WC12 is on same facade but has halfthe load (1 IGU/controller). Stored information on the controllers isprovided in the graph of FIG. 18A, where W, H, and SF are the windows'widths, heights, and square feet (area), respectively. The systemexpects that controllers WC1-WC11 will have the same drive and holdcurrent profiles.

In FIGS. 18B-18E, which present plots of controller current readingstaken on March 1, 4, and 5, the lower flat bottomed curve is the appliedvoltage to drive a window transition. See the labels WC1V for March 5,WC09V for March 1, WC10V for March 4, and WC9V for March 5 (FIG. 18E).As seen, the applied voltage profile is the same; all controllers areidentically driven. All other curves represent current from thecontrollers, and all controllers except WC12 have identical loads.Hence, the system expects the current curves for WC1-WC11 to be same forsame. The SMS analyzes and compares the current readings, and finds thatWC11 has two issues (a) its current profile has an uncharacteristic dipin it in the middle of a ramp (b) it draws about half the peak current(about as much as WC12 level) compared to WC1-WC10, suggesting that oneof the two windows controlled by WC11 was not getting tinted. Manualinspection of the windows confirmed that one window controlled by WC11was not tinting properly. Further inspection showed that one window oftwo controlled by WC11 was not tinting due to pinched cable whichultimately stopped working, which is why WC11 had an uncharacteristiccurrent profile that eventually resembled WC12, which drives only asingle window.

Analysis of WC11 from earlier dates (February 8-10 in the graphs FIGS.18F-18H) shows that it had characteristics of a failing controller.Current drawn from WC11 had spiky drops and increases in currentevidencing onset of the problem. With auto detection, the SMS could havefound this problem and flagged it to field service before one of thewindows stopped tinting and became a noticeable problem.

Mechanical Shades

While certain disclosure emphasizes systems, methods, and logic forcontrolling switchable optical devices (e.g., electrochromic devices),these techniques can also be used to control mechanical shades or acombination of switchable optical devices and mechanical shades. Such amechanical shade may, for example, include a motor operated blind or anarray of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices or otherelectromechanical systems (EMS) devices. Windows having a combination ofelectrochromic devices and EMS systems devices can be found in PCTinternational application PCT/US2013/07208, titled “MULTI-PANE WINDOWSINCLUDING ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES AND ELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEMS DEVICES,”filed on Nov. 26, 2012, which is hereby incorporated by reference in itsentirety. Mechanical shades typically have different power requirementsthan certain switchable optical devices such as electrochromic devices.For example, while certain electrochromic devices require a few volts tooperate, mechanical shades may in some instances require larger voltagesin order to establish sufficient potential to physically move themechanical feature.

Microblinds and microshutters are examples of types of EMS devices. Someexamples of microblinds and microshutters, and their methods offabrication are described respectively in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,684,105 and5,579,149, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentirety.

In certain embodiments, a mechanical shade may be an array of EMSdevices, where each EMS device including a portion (e.g., a hinge or ananchor) attached to the substrate and a mobile portion. When actuated byelectrostatic forces, the mobile portion may move and obscure thesubstrate. In the unactuated state, the mobile portion may expose thesubstrate. In the example of some microblinds, the mobile portion may bean overhanging portion of a material layer that curls when actuated byelectrostatic forces. In the example of some microshutters, the mobileportion can rotate or curl when actuated. In some cases, the EMS devicesmay be actuated and controlled by electrostatic control means. In theexample of microshutters, the electrostatic control means may controlthe angle of rotation or curl to different states. The substrate withthe array of EMS devices may also include a conductive layer. In theexample of microblinds, the microblinds are fabricated using a thinlayer(s) under controlled stress. In embodiments with an array of EMSdevices, each EMS device has two states, an actuated state and anunactuated state. The actuated state may render the array of EMS devicessubstantially opaque and the unactuated state may render the array ofEMS devices substantially transparent, or vice versa. The actuated andunactuated states may also switch between substantially reflective (orabsorptive) and substantially transparent, for example. Other states arealso possible when the array of EMS devices is in an actuated orunactuated state. For example, microshutters, a type of MEMS device, maybe fabricated from a tinted (but non-opaque) coating, which when shutprovide a tinted pane, and when open the tint is substantially removed.Further, some arrays of EMS devices may have three, four, or more statesthat are able to be transitioned to. In some cases, the EMS devices canmodify visible and/or infrared transmission. The EMS devices may reflectin some cases, may be absorptive in other cases, and in yet otherembodiments may provide both reflective and absorptive properties. Incertain embodiments, the EMS devices may be operated at variable speeds,e.g., to transition from a high transmission state to a low-transmissionstate, or a no-transmission state. In certain cases, the EMS devices maybe used in conjunction with an electrochromic device (or otherswitchable optical device) as a temporary light blocking measure, e.g.,to block light until the associated electrochromic device hastransitioned to a lower transmissivity state or a higher transmissivitystate.

Although the foregoing embodiments have been described in some detail tofacilitate understanding, the described embodiments are to be consideredillustrative and not limiting. It will be apparent to one of ordinaryskill in the art that certain changes and modifications can be practicedwithin the scope of the appended claims. For example, while the variousfeatures of the site monitoring devices have been describedindividually, such features may be combined in a single site monitoringdevice.

What is claimed is:
 1. A site monitoring system (SMS) comprising: one ormore processors for controlling a network of optically switchablewindows located at a plurality of remote sites, each site including arespective sub-network of switchable optical windows and associatedcontrollers and sensors, wherein the one or more processors areconfigured to: communicate with a plurality of components of the networkof optically switchable windows to receive information associated withthe plurality of components, cause a first set of voltage and/or currentparameters to be measured at the plurality of components, store theinformation received and the first set of measured parameters as abaseline characterization of the network of optically switchablewindows, wherein the plurality of components comprise at least one ofthe optically switchable windows, associated controllers and sensors,use the baseline characterization for comparison to subsequentlymeasured parameters to identify variation in the measured parametersfrom the baseline characterization, and, when the variation in themeasured parameters from the baseline characterization exceeds athreshold value, identify a malfunctioning or degrading component of theplurality of components.